CDU and SPD start coalition negotiations: minority government in sight!

CDU and SPD start coalition negotiations: minority government in sight!

In a dramatic turning point for Saxon politics, the CDU and the SPD have decided to include coalition negotiations for the formation of a minority government. This decision was made in Dresden in the evening, where the state board members of both parties met. A joint press briefing will reveal more details on Friday morning. But the challenge remains: In order to make decisions in the state parliament, the new government lacks ten votes for a majority.

The CDU, which emerged in the state election on September 1st with 31.9 percent of the vote as the strongest force, faces a tricky situation. The AfD followed densely with 30.6 percent, and an alliance with this or the left is excluded for the Union. A three-way alliance with the BSW and the SPD was the only option, but the explorations with the BSW failed due to insurmountable differences in central questions such as peace policy, migration and finance.

coalition negotiations at a rush pace

Despite the failed explorations, there is hope for quick progress in the coalition negotiations. Prime Minister Michael Kretschmer (CDU) is determined to forge the alliance before Christmas. The deadline for the election of a new Saxon head of government expires in early February 2025, which increases the pressure to find a solution. In the past, the CDU and SPD have already ruled together from 2004 to 2009 and from 2014 to 2019. The political landscape in Saxony remains exciting, while the parties are trying to set the course for the future.