Internal discontent in the CDU is directed at Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the planned change for Verkehrsminister Patrick Schnieder. Several politicians accuse him of arbitrariness.
Criticism of Merz is growing after the decision to dismiss Patrick Schnieder leaked. However, a designated successor backed out at the last minute, so the cabinet change is not yet official.
Christian Bäumler, deputy head of the CDA workers' wing, told Handelsblatt: „The dismissal of Verkehrsminister Schnieder creates the impression of arbitrariness. A federal government should not be run like a feudal kingdom.“
Peter Altmaier, former head of the Chancellery, expressed concern: „The way he is being treated makes me affected and angry.“ Gordon Schnieder, the minister's brother and Minister President of Rhineland-Palatinate, also shared the criticism. Gerhard Kauth from the CDU local association Arzfeld called the approach scandalous.
