The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) parliamentarian, Caroline Bosbach, has confirmed that the Cologne public prosecutor’s office has initiated formal investigations against her, a development that signals a deepening of scrutiny surrounding allegations of financial impropriety within the party. Bosbach, daughter of long-serving CDU parliamentarian Wolfgang Bosbach, disclosed the news to the “Rheinische Post” newspaper, expressing surprise at the official commencement of the inquiry nearly four months after the accusations first surfaced.
The allegations center on claims that Bosbach allegedly received €2,500 of CDU party funds for personal use. The parliamentarian has vehemently denied these accusations, characterizing them as part of a “smear campaign” and insisting her lawyer’s assessment validates her innocence. She previously addressed the situation on Instagram, publishing a legal statement from her counsel dismissing the claims.
While Bosbach maintains confidence in the German legal system and anticipates a dismissal of charges upon completion of the investigation, the move by the Cologne prosecutor’s office represents a significant escalation. The timing is particularly sensitive, arriving during a period of heightened political awareness regarding party financing and the potential for corruption within established political structures.
For the CDU, already navigating a challenging political landscape, the situation presents another layer of complication. While Bosbach projects an image of unwavering trust in the justice system, questions are inevitably arising about the party’s internal controls and oversight procedures related to party funds. Sources within the CDU are reportedly divided, with some expressing concern over the potential damage to the party’s reputation, while others are standing firmly by Bosbach’s assertions of innocence. The prosecutor’s office had not publicly confirmed the investigation at the time of Bosbach’s statement, underscoring the delicate nature of the situation and the potential for further developments.