- The Authority is tasked with presenting a plan for a mandate aimed at safeguarding laborers from the potential hazards stemming from radiation exposure through ionising rays.
Sahra Wagenknecht, the chairwoman of the BSW, categorically denies any thought of forming a coalition with the far-right, extremist-inclined AfD ahead of the upcoming elections in Eastern Germany. Yet, she leaves the door open for collaborating on specific legislative proposals. Wagenknecht told news agency AFP that the AfD's extreme right-wing ideology and dominance in the east make it unsuitable for coalition formation.
Wagenknecht commented, "No way you can form a coalition with such individuals; their nationalist mindset and unacceptability as a ruling party to the majority of the population is a fact."
While she dismissed the idea of a coalition, Wagenknecht also stated that there's no reason to reject AfD proposals outright. Upon careful examination, the BSW may vote against AfD bills if they deem necessary, she added. Wagenknecht believes that opposing every AfD proposal unfairly strengthens the party.
She remarked, "We don't simply want to vote against AfD proposals, as that just strengthens their position. If the AfD ever proposes something reasonable, it wouldn't make sense to tell voters that everyone's against it."
Wagenknecht highlighted differences between the BSW and AfD. She finds it peculiar that the comparisons with the AfD "are always only directed towards us; such comparisons should be applied to all parties." Wagenknecht noted significant agreements in economic and financial policy between the CDU, FDP, and AfD.
On the topic of social issues, the AfD opposes higher taxation for the wealthy class, rent control, and an increased minimum wage. Wagenknecht views the AfD as failing on these matters, aligning more closely with parties like the CDU and FDP in their policies.
A further distinction, according to Wagenknecht, is on the issue of "rearmament." The AfD supports attaining the NATO goal of spending 2% of GDP on defense, viewing it insufficient. "That's a position that is quite distant from ours," she concluded.
The elections for new state parliaments are to take place in Thuringia and Saxony this Sunday. In both regions, the AfD leads in the polls, followed by the CDU, and then the BSW.
Despite her denial of forming a coalition with the AfD due to their extreme ideology, Wagenknecht acknowledges the necessity to consider their legislative proposals during the upcoming Election to the Landtag in Thuringia and Saxony. She emphasizes the importance of not unfairly rejecting their proposals to avoid strengthening the party's position.
