Kretschmer: Minority government stable and on the right track

Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) believes his minority government is stable. "In the end, the matter is perfectly clear: only the things that a larger part of the plenum wants will happen. The coalition of CDU and SPD can make smart offers. That's what we're doing," said the head of government in an interview with the German Press Agency. By including the opposition in the consultation mechanism, there is predictability and a discussion at eye level.

Criticism of the consultation procedure from the Greens and Left

Kretschmer's coalition is ten votes short of a majority in parliament. The opposition is involved in the government's plans via a consultation procedure and can contribute its own ideas. The Sahra Wagenknecht alliance, the Greens and the Left are participating, but the AfD is not. One year after the government was formed, the Greens and the Left questioned the mechanism. Green parliamentary group leader Franziska Schubert compared the coalition to marmots: "They are usually in their burrow and only come out when they need something."

Government does not have stability for Saxony in its own hands.

Kretschmer's conclusion is different. "A lot has been achieved and there is a respectful way of dealing with each other. But the question of whether anything happens in a minority government depends on whether the opposition wants to participate." That would have to be decided by the members of parliament. "If the CDU and SPD have their way, it is quite clear that we want to give this country stability. We want to lead the government until the 2029 state elections, but it's not up to us alone. It's not in our hands."

Kretschmer ready for another run as head of government

Kretschmer (50) is ready to run again in 2029. If successful, it would be his third re-election. This would also make him the head of government with the longest term in office in Saxony. "We will discuss this calmly in the Saxon Union. Not today, but certainly a year and a half beforehand. But of course I am ready. You have to be at a time when it really matters to take responsibility." Especially in financially difficult times, the state needs stability.

Kretschmer sees a good climate in the Union as CDU state leader

According to Kretschmer, the CDU is well positioned in Saxony. There is a whole range of personalities who could hold the office of Minister President. "We are in the fortunate position in the Saxon CDU that we have a very good connection with each other and enjoy working together," said the CDU state leader. There is neither conflict nor competition. It simply feels good in the party. "That's why I'm happy to take on responsibility for longer than 2029."