Kretschmer Sparks Widespread Debate with Remarks on Firewalls

Saxony’s Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) is facing criticism and questions over his remarks regarding the “firewall.” “Anyone who’s still talking about ‘firewalls’ hasn’t recognized the signs of the times. We have to talk to anyone who wants to talk,” Kretschmer told the *Handelsblatt*. Given the political balance of power in eastern Germany, he is calling for a willingness to engage in dialogue with all other parties. The term “firewall” refers to the parties’ stance of not cooperating with the AfD.

Green Party Chairwoman: Remarks “incredibly irresponsible”

“Anyone who denies the existence of the firewall has failed to recognize the signs of the times,” countered Saxony’s Green Party chairwoman Coretta Storz, calling Kretschmer’s remarks “incredibly irresponsible.” “Anyone who can read the signs of the times hears hate speech at AfD party conventions and threats of violence against politicians at AfD campaign events.” The AfD is a far-right party and endangers people. “The ‘firewall’ is now more necessary than ever.”

Green Party state leader Martin Helbig pointed out that an increasing number of legal experts are calling for a ban on the AfD. “Against this backdrop, for the Minister President to question the ‘firewall’ at this point in time is insensitive and dangerous. Michael Kretschmer should ask himself which side he wants to be on.”

AfD Accuses Kretschmer of Hypocrisy

The Saxon AfD also voiced criticism for entirely different reasons. “In fact, his CDU has already stipulated in the coalition agreement with the SPD that both parties rule out cooperation with the AfD. Michael Kretschmer is ‘Mr. Firewall’—at least when it comes to the AfD,” explained AfD party and parliamentary group leader Jörg Urban.

Young Socialists Accuse Kretschmer of Tinkering with the Firewall

The Young Socialists accused Kretschmer of tinkering with the party’s distinction from the AfD. “It is not the demand for a clear demarcation from the far right that is out of step with the times. What is out of step with the times is the attempt to call it into question precisely where the AfD is stronger than almost anywhere else,” emphasized Juso state leader Mats Rudolph. With his statements, Kretschmer is unnecessarily calling into question the CDU’s previous stance on dealing with the AfD.