Bas recognizes Schulz as a voice for freedom and democracy

Created: 11/10/2022 10:01 am

Bundestag President Bärbel Bas (SPD) speaks at a Bundestag session.

© Michael Kappeler/dpa

Bundestag President Bärbel Bas (SPD) honored Werner Schulz, a former GDR civil rights activist and Green Party politician who died, as a voice for freedom and democracy.

"Our country will miss this courageous and sincere fighter for free democracy," she said on Thursday at the beginning of the Bundestag session.

“Werner Schulz stood up for his convictions.

Berlin - sincere and courageous.

Often uncomfortable and against the current.

With a sharp tongue and a clear view.

And always committed to free democracy.”

Schulz died unexpectedly on Wednesday at the age of 72 at an event at Bellevue Palace in Berlin.

"His attitude and his independence made him - across party lines - a highly valued politician and person," said the President of the Bundestag.

Bas reminded that Schulz always wanted to make November 9th, which in Germany stands for the fall of the Berlin Wall, a national holiday.

She pointed out that Schulz had joined the opposition in the GDR early on and was involved in the church peace, environmental and civil rights movements.

"His name will remain associated with the Peaceful Revolution and the reunification of our country."

Earlier than most politicians, he saw very clearly the danger and unscrupulousness of Kremlin boss Vladimir Putin and supported the opposition in Russia, Bas said.

"Years ago, he criticized that the western community of states should have put a firm stop to Russia's aggressive imperialism and should have given Ukraine more protection." dpa