After the criticism of CDU party leader Angela Merkel Schleswig-Holstein's Prime Minister Daniel Günther has taken his party friend in protection. It is very obvious, "that this is more about settling old bills," said the advisory member of the CDU presidium in a ZDF interview. "I have little understanding."
Ex-Union faction leader Friedrich Merz had called after the state election in Thuringia, the appearance of the federal government as a "wicked" and especially attacked Merkel violently. The CDU had to accept heavy losses in the vote.
The demand for an early end to Merkel's term was described by Günther as "a debate led by older men who may not have reached their career goals in their lives". But this is one thing, "they should make it personal with themselves, and now they should not put that into the CDU".
Of course, after an election result as in Thuringia, a careful analysis must be done, Günther said. And without a doubt it is "that the situation at the federal level has not helped to get a decent result". In this respect, it is okay to have a critical debate within the party. But this reminds him of the situation in which the SPD was advised: "One begins to distance oneself from one's own decisions that one has once made."
Clear words in the direction of the Merkel critics
Now it is about criticizing Merkel's lifetime achievements, with which the CDU won four elections. "I do not think that's helpful, especially when it comes from the sidelines, from people who once took responsibility for the Union, but that's long gone," said Günther.
Whenever it is possible to make a headline, you see something of these people. But when it comes to really working for the party as well, then "back off the field". "That, I think, is really irresponsible, and that's why I do not think that's a good style," said Günther.