Saskia Esken, the co-chair of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD), has announced her decision not to seek re-election in June. Esken, who has led the party since 2019, expressed her desire to make way for younger members, particularly women, to take leadership roles. Her tenure saw the SPD rise from a low point in the polls to winning the 2021 federal election, paving the way for Olaf Scholz's chancellorship.
Despite these achievements, Esken faced increasing criticism from within the party, particularly for her leftist views and outspoken nature. She attributed some of the criticism to being a bold, left-leaning woman who speaks out against injustices. Nonetheless, Esken looks back with satisfaction on her years at the helm.
During her leadership, Esken partnered first with Norbert Walter-Borjans and later with Lars Klingbeil. While the party faced a significant electoral defeat in the most recent election, Esken emphasized the importance of renewing the party's leadership. Her decision to step down is also a call for maintaining the co-leadership model, which she believes effectively represents diverse viewpoints within the SPD.
Esken will continue to serve as a member of the Bundestag, despite not securing a direct mandate in her CDU-dominated constituency. As the SPD prepares for its leadership election, potential candidates, including Labor Minister Bärbel Bas, are emerging to take up the mantle. Esken's departure marks a pivotal moment for the SPD as it navigates the challenges of revitalization and leadership transition.
