Saxony-Anhalt: The Left to decide on CDU cooperation with party members

Eva von Angern, the top candidate for The Left party in the upcoming state election in Saxony-Anhalt, has declared that any decision regarding cooperation with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) must be made collectively by the party's members. "This can only be decided closely with the party," von Angern stated in Magdeburg, emphasizing the significance of such a decision not only for Saxony-Anhalt but for The Left party nationally. She pointed to successful collaborations between members of The Left and the CDU at the municipal level as evidence that such partnerships can function effectively.

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This can only be decided closely with the party.

Von Angern asserted that compromise is fundamental to the functioning of democracy. She noted that The Left party is experienced in navigating democratic processes and has demonstrated its ability to work collaboratively with other parties, referencing the jointly passed parliamentary reform in Saxony-Anhalt. "The important thing for the parties is that we all keep our face," von Angern said, adding that The Left will remain committed to its core principle of social justice. She observed that citizens are often more concerned with the resolution of their problems than with party labels.

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Indeed, democracy only works with compromises.

Stefan Gebhardt, the parliamentary group leader, acknowledged that there are areas of overlap with the CDU, but also recognized that disagreements are inevitable. He suggested focusing on achievable common ground. Von Angern and Gebhardt reviewed the current legislative period, highlighting approximately 30 initiatives that The Left party, despite being in opposition, managed to implement, particularly in education and for municipalities. Von Angern attributed the party's successful cooperation with other factions in Saxony-Anhalt partly to its strong roots within civil society.

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The important thing for the parties is that we all keep our face.

The state election is scheduled for September 6. Current polls show the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party leading significantly, with around 40 percent support, aiming for a sole governing majority. Political analysts suggest that the CDU might need to cooperate with The Left on specific issues to continue leading the state government after the election. However, incumbent Minister-President Sven Schulze (CDU) has ruled out forming a coalition with either the AfD or The Left.

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And at the same time, there will be points where we do not come together. The question is whether we simply concentrate on what we can achieve.