The leader of the Christian Democrats in Germany, Friedrich Merz, expressed a restrained reaction to the criticism from former Chancellor Angela Merkel regarding his approach to the issue of immigration. Merz stated that Merkel expressed a feeling of discomfort, which many, including her, share. The acting president of the Christian-Social Union of Bavaria, Markus Söder, supported his party colleague, stating that she expresses only her personal opinion, not the official position of the party. It is noteworthy that Merkel previously led the Christian Democratic Union, which together with the Christian-Social Union of Bavaria forms what is known as the 'Christian Union.' On Thursday, Merkel unusually criticized the approach of the Christian Union to the adoption of its legislative report on the tightening of immigration policy with the support of the right-populist party 'Alternative for Germany.' In his speech at the election rally, Merz reaffirmed his point of view, stating that the presence of 'Alternatives for Germany' in the Bundestag since 2017 is linked to the politics of past leaders. In a written statement, Merkel called Merz's actions inappropriate.
