The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) is navigating internal discord and electoral challenges as it enters a crucial phase. In Hamburg, the party had to re-elect its state executive board due to procedural issues. Konstantin Eulenburg and Jochen Brack were reconfirmed as state chairpersons, with Metin Kaya as deputy and Christian Kruse as treasurer. Despite these confirmations, the party faces tensions, particularly with members Dejan Lazić and Norbert Weber, who were excluded from a party meeting for creating internal chaos.
BSW's recent electoral performance has been mixed. While achieving significant results in some state elections, its national poll numbers have slumped to between 4% and 6%. This downturn comes amid internal criticism and external opposition to its leadership and policies. Notably, former member Torsten Teichert condemned the party's leadership style, accusing it of fostering a "Führer-Kult" and dividing the left.
At the federal party conference in Bonn, BSW aims to solidify its electoral agenda. Its 39-page program "Unser Land verdient mehr" calls for controversial measures, including gas imports from Russia, tightening asylum laws, and establishing a national rent cap. Co-chair Amira Mohamed Ali has been vocal in criticizing rival parties, positioning Sahra Wagenknecht as a potential chancellor candidate, and distancing BSW from the AfD.
The party's internal struggles and divisive policies are underscored by its need to appeal to a broader electorate. As it prepares for upcoming elections, the BSW must navigate these challenges to strengthen its position on the national stage.
