Former SPD Leader Warns Against Covert Attacks on Esken

The former chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), Norbert Walter-Borjans, has expressed concerns regarding the internal strife within the party, particularly targeting Co-Chair Saskia Esken. He stated that the recent trend of covert hostility within the party is detrimental to its unity and effectiveness.

Walter-Borjans, who led the SPD alongside Esken from 2019 to 2021, emphasized that while he cannot definitively assess whether Esken is currently more beneficial or harmful to the party, he believes the ongoing behind-the-scenes maneuvers against her are certainly damaging. He criticized the so-called 'backroom whispers' that have emerged, suggesting they undermine collective efforts within the SPD.

Esken, aged 63, has been credited with contributing to the party's cohesion and played a significant role in its electoral victory in 2021. Walter-Borjans acknowledged that she has not been widely popular among the public, admitting that she has made some contributions to this perception. However, he argued that her straightforwardness is viewed by some as a mark of quality.

The SPD faced a challenging outcome in the recent Bundestag elections, securing only 16.4 percent of the vote, its lowest ever. This poor showing has intensified scrutiny on Esken, particularly from factions within the party that are seeking to reposition themselves. Despite this pressure, there are rumors regarding her aspirations for a ministerial role in the upcoming government.

In the meantime, Co-Chair Lars Klingbeil has consolidated his power by acquiring the leadership of the parliamentary group, and he is also a contender for the Vice-Chancellorship. Former Minister for Family Affairs, Franziska Giffey, has called for a rejuvenation of the party's leadership following the election. Giffey argued that the current trajectory, with the same individuals in charge, cannot satisfy the urgent need for renewal.

Giffey pointed out that there are capable individuals within the party who should be entrusted with greater responsibilities, and she believes that this shift is necessary for the SPD to progress. Recently, she reiterated the importance of not only experience but also a clear signal for a new beginning in cabinet appointments.

Moreover, SPD General Secretary Matthias Miersch defended Esken against the rising criticism, asserting the party's commitment to a team-oriented approach. He described the attacks on her as unjustified and expressed confidence that a strong personnel proposal would be presented at the upcoming party congress scheduled for late June.

Esken herself has highlighted the importance of the forthcoming party gathering, where the results of the recent election will be analyzed, and where crucial personnel decisions are expected to be made. She indicated that these decisions will be reached collaboratively as a team.