The leader of the opposition in the Düsseldorf state parliament, Jochen Ott (SPD), has launched a scathing critique of a forthcoming conference, “Modernization Agenda for Germany – Where Do We Stand?”, hosted in Berlin. The event, spearheaded by North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) Minister-President Hendrik Wüst (CDU), aims to present proposals for a more efficient state apparatus.
Ott’s remarks, published in the “Rheinische Post” accused Wüst of hypocrisy, arguing that it is “a remarkable form of political denial of reality” for the NRW leader to distribute advice on a national stage while his own state remains in a state of persistent dysfunction. He insisted that those failing to deliver domestically should refrain from acting as self-proclaimed experts nationally.
Beyond the perceived hypocrisy, Ott highlighted growing internal questioning within the CDU itself. Sources indicate that Wüst’s initiative has elicited skepticism among members of his own parliamentary group, prompting inquiries regarding the foundation upon which NRW is positioned to offer substantive recommendations to the federal government.
The situation is reportedly exacerbated by recent internal setbacks within NRW. The head of the state’s digital transformation department has recently resigned in frustration, citing an inability to progress effectively under the current state government. Ott described this as a “political admission of failure.
Adding to the controversy, the absence of representatives from NRW’s Green coalition partner from the Berlin conference has drawn further criticism, painting a picture of a lack of seriousness and credibility surrounding the event.
Ultimately, Ott concluded that Hendrik Wüst’s actions demonstrate a dissonance in leadership – ineffective at the state level but seeking to project an image of authority nationally. He emphasized that citizens prioritize tangible results and a competent leader, not a “greatest showman”. The opposition leader challenged Wüst to focus on delivering real improvements within NRW rather than pursuing a superficial display of national leadership.