Thuringia's 'Blackberry Coalition' Faces Crisis Amid BSW Internal Strife

The "blackberry coalition" in Thuringia, Germany, composed of the CDU, BSW, and SPD, is facing a crisis. This unique coalition is threatened by internal disputes within the BSW party, specifically between its federal leadership and the Thuringian state chapter. The federal BSW leadership demanded that the Thuringian BSW withdraw support for the CDU Minister-President Mario Voigt, leave the coalition, and seek a non-partisan leader. This demand stems from Voigt's unsuccessful appeal against the revocation of his doctorate. The Thuringian BSW state chapter, however, has indicated a desire to continue governing, with State Chairwoman Katja Wolf emphasizing a trusting cooperation in the interest of the state. The situation is further complicated by AfD leader Björn Höcke's announcement of a constructive no-confidence vote against Voigt, proposing Sahra Wagenknecht as a candidate for Minister-President, a move Wagenknecht herself has downplayed. The Thuringian BSW parliamentary group largely voted against leaving the coalition, but the absence of two key supporters of the federal leadership's stance has further destabilized the already fragile government, which relies on the opposition Left Party for a majority in the state parliament.

“

We will not be driven apart and will not let Thuringia become a pawn in party-tactical maneuvers. What is decisive is that we take responsibility together here in the state.