Volker Wissing discusses his decision to remain in the government despite resigning from the FDP following the collapse of the traffic light coalition. He expresses the pain of losing a collaborative opportunity and emphasizes the importance of a stable government. Wissing reflects on the challenges of bipartisan cooperation and critiques the prolonged focus on differences over solutions. He advocates for constructive opposition and stresses the need to prioritize essential projects like the Germany ticket amidst the political upheaval.
Volker Wissing’s Decision to Stay in Government Amid Coalition Breakdown
Introduction: The recent dissolution of the traffic light coalition has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, particularly with Volker Wissing’s unexpected choice to remain in the government while resigning from the FDP. In this interview, he sheds light on his motivations and his perspective on his former party.
The Pain of Political Change
Interviewer: Mr. Wissing, as a key architect of the traffic light coalition, how do you feel witnessing its collapse?
Volker Wissing: It’s incredibly painful. Our democracy has lost an opportunity, and I believe my responsibility is to sustain and enrich it. Despite our differences, a stable government is essential for our nation. The recent developments do not strengthen our country.
Interviewer: Leaving the FDP after 26 years to continue as a minister is a significant change. How challenging was this decision for you?
Wissing: This was a tough choice. Ultimately, I realized I couldn’t remain in government while also being a party member without causing issues for the FDP. However, my commitment to serving the country outweighed my party allegiance.
The Role of Personal Dynamics in Politics
Interviewer: It seems Christian Lindner has a different viewpoint?
Wissing: It’s not uncommon for people to have differing assessments. My experience in Rhineland-Palatinate in a similar coalition taught me that collaboration across diverse parties can be challenging but not impossible.
Interviewer: Why didn’t this collaboration succeed at the federal level?
Wissing: The human element is crucial in politics. A significant error was the prolonged emphasis on our differences rather than focusing on solutions.
Interviewer: Are you implying that the FDP is at fault?
Wissing: It was a collective issue. I faced criticism from other coalition members, and we failed to address issues collaboratively and swiftly.
Olaf Scholz’s Perspective
Reflections on Responsibility and Accountability
Interviewer: Do you think Christian Lindner is to blame for the coalition’s end?
Wissing: Assigning blame isn’t my role. It pains me that public confrontations overshadowed the critical question of how to work together and resolve issues. As the legislative period drew to a close, the willingness to compromise seemed to diminish.
Interviewer: So, you believe Lindner is a key factor in this?
Wissing: I’m not pointing fingers at any one person. While Lindner is a prominent figure, I believe unity was crucial, and I wish we could have maintained that.
The Future of Governance
Interviewer: Some commend your choice to stay in government, while others accuse you of betrayal. How do you respond to this criticism?
Wissing: I find such accusations rather trivial. If I sought comfort, I would have left office quietly.
Interviewer: The Chancellor has proposed a confidence vote on January 15. Is that too delayed?
Wissing: New elections are a constitutional rarity and should not be dictated by the opposition’s timeline. It’s essential that the Chancellor makes a timely decision as mandated by the constitution.
Interviewer: What do you expect from the opposition in this new political climate?
Wissing: I hope for constructive behavior focused on passing essential laws. It’s crucial that we prioritize the country’s needs over party politics.
Interviewer: Are projects like the Germany ticket at risk now?
Wissing: We need to ensure funding for the Germany ticket and maintain support for public transport to prevent fiscal issues. Additionally, railway renovations must continue, and I’m committed to overseeing these initiatives.