Eckhardt Rehberg shoots against Schwesig: SPD is subordinate!”

Eckhardt Rehberg shoots against Schwesig: SPD is subordinate!”

The political landscape in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania continues to be shaped by old and new conflicts. Eckhardt Rehberg, a former CDU member of the Bundestag who retired from active politics almost four years ago, is critical of the SPD's current top candidate, Manuela Schwesig. In an interview, Rehberg, who maintains regular exchanges with Angela Merkel, emphasized that Schwesig's radical style and the independence of the SPD parliamentary group worried him. He describes the SPD in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania as structurally and personally subordinate, which indicates a drastic balance of power. This sentimental criticism shows that the people involved remain involved in political events long after their active time.

What is striking is Rehberg's accusation against Schwesig that her Russia policy is implausible. The worsening geopolitical situation plays a role here, which is causing discussions not only locally but also nationwide. Even during his active time, Rehberg was a prominent voice within the CDU. His positive assessment of Friedrich Merz's chancellorship suggests that he also sees responsibility at the top for urgently needed reforms. When it comes to issues such as the federal government's debt pact, he expresses pain in his stomach, but recognizes that there is no way around solutions for defense capability and infrastructure.

Merz and the challenges of the CDU

The CDU itself is under pressure. Angela Merkel, who ruled Germany for over 16 years, continues to face strong criticism from within her own ranks. Particularly close to her heart is the discussion about her migration policy, which, as many party colleagues note, is no longer up to date. The fact that Friedrich Merz called last year to avoid working with the AfD underlines the conflict within the party. Merkel's repeated dissatisfaction with the AfD's support for CDU proposals has irritated many members. According to a survey, most CDU members consider Merkel's comments to be inappropriate and harmful, revealing the division within the party.

Merkel, who is often referred to as the “Teflon Chancellor,” still cannot absolve herself of responsibility for the crises that Merz is trying to overcome. Several prominent voices - including Ole von Beust and Peter Harry Carstensen - warn that an offensive approach is not effective in the current situation. An upcoming vote in the Bundestag on a bill to restrict family reunification brings with it an additional need for important discussion and is causing excitement among the public. The draft also provides for an expansion of the powers of the federal police, which is viewed as problematic by various parties.

Rehberg is enjoying his retirement

Rehberg also continues personally. The former CEO of Hansa Rostock, who also received an artificial knee joint, is enjoying his time in rehab in Bad Doberan. He has decided to no longer seek a political mandate and to stay out of city councils or district councils. Instead, he devotes himself to growing vegetables himself and enjoys cycling and motorcycling. These new priorities seem to fulfill him, even if he continues to follow and discuss political events critically.

At a time when political interfaces are becoming increasingly complex, Rehberg's commitment shows that retirees can continue to show an interest in developments and express their opinions without retreating into politics. It remains to be seen whether the CDU and especially politicians in Schwerin will listen to these critical voices.