Horst Seehofer Criticizes Chancellor Merz Sharply

Former CSU leader and long-time Bavarian Minister-President Horst Seehofer has issued strong criticism against Chancellor Friedrich Merz, calling for an urgent change of course. According to Seehofer, Merz has suffered a significant loss of credibility due to broken election promises.

"Friedrich Merz has, through the breaking of election promises, suffered a massive loss of credibility," Seehofer told "Bild am Sonntag." He specifically referenced a promise to lower electricity taxes for everyone, which he claims has not been implemented.

Seehofer particularly condemned Merz's remarks concerning the alleged lack of work ethic among Germans. "Statements that Germans do not work enough and call in sick too often offend people," he stated. He questioned what such remarks communicate to nurses, for example, who already work weekend and night shifts.

Furthermore, Seehofer demanded "considerably more speed" and "considerably less self-occupation" from the federal government. He emphasized the need for decisions rather than new commissions, as a top politician must take a stance.

The CSU's sister party, the CDU, is currently seeking a way out of its deep crisis during a leadership meeting. The party is particularly struggling after election defeats, including failing to gain seats in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state parliament.