Former Bavarian leader Seehofer slams Merz over broken promises and policy drift

In a sharp interview, former CSU leader Horst Seehofer charged Chancellor Friedrich Merz with a loss of credibility after breaking key election promises, notably the promised reduction of the electricity tax. He argued that the Union’s policies, including the controversial idea of compulsory sick-note documentation from day one, ignore the lived experience of German workers and nurses. Seehofer also highlighted the impact of “cold progression,” which erodes modest wage increases, saying the party fails to call a halt to such trends.

He criticized the coalition’s preoccupation with internal disputes and the proliferation of expert commissions on reforms, calling for stronger, faster political action. The former interior minister warned that repeated unfulfilled promises have eroded public trust, making governance ineffective. His comments echo earlier criticism of Merz’s stance on foreign policy, such as the halted weapons deliveries to Israel in 2025.