Veteran CDU figure, Rita Süssmuth, engages in cancer battle
In the time of Helmut Kohl's leadership, Rita Süssmuth rose to prominence as the first female Minister of a Land, later acting as President of the Bundestag for several years. Recently, the former CDU politician has disclosed her longstanding battle with breast cancer, having received her diagnosis three years past. Reports indicate that metastasis has surfaced since then. In an interview with the "Bild" newspaper, the 87-year-old Süssmuth remarked, "I'm far from well, but I maintain a positive outlook, I won't retreat."
Currently, Süssmuth's daughter Claudia Süssmuth-Dyckerhoff and her five grandchildren lend her strength. Her faith as a Catholic also provides solace, with Süssmuth stating, "God has been a guiding force in my life for many years."
Süssmuth became a member of the CDU in 1981 at the age of 44 and garnered Kohl's attention, eventually being appointed as Minister. Her ministry's portfolio consisted of Youth, Family, Women and Health, making her the first female Minister in the Federal Republic. Though Süssmuth faced some disputes with the Chancellor, she left an impact on the Kohl era.
In 1988, when Süssmuth assumed the role of Bundestag President, some speculated that her dismissal from office was due to discomfort on Kohl's part. A year later, she contested Kohl's CDU chairmanship at the Bremen Party Congress, but was unsuccessful. Süssmuth retained her post until 1998 and oversaw the parliament's relocation to Berlin, despite her support for Bonn as the capital. It is said that she pushed for and prevailed against resistance in the construction of the Reichstag's impressive glass dome.
Later, in 2000, Gerhard Schröder appointed Süssmuth as Chairwoman of the new Immigration Commission. She continued her commitment to immigration even after leaving the Bundestag in 2002. Since the 1980s, Süssmuth has also championed a compassionate approach towards individuals living with HIV.
Süssmuth was married to Professor Hans Süssmuth from 1964 until his passing in 2020.
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Despite her ongoing cancer battle, Rita Süssmuth's dedication to advocacy, particularly for immigration and individuals living with HIV, remains unwavering within the CDU. After receiving her breast cancer diagnosis three years ago, the CDU veteran has faced metastasis and continues to maintain a positive outlook.
