Berlin's Left Party Announces New Leadership Change

Franziska Brychcy steps down from co-chair role to focus on education policy as Maximilian Schirmer and Kerstin Wolter prepare to lead the party.

Franziska Brychcy, co-chair of Berlin's Left Party since 2023, will not seek re-election at the May leadership vote, citing the demands of her parliamentary role and personal responsibilities.
Maximilian Schirmer, the current co-chair, plans to run for re-election alongside Kerstin Wolter, a district leader from Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, to form the new leadership duo.
Brychcy emphasized her decision to focus on her work as deputy parliamentary leader and education policy spokesperson in the Abgeordnetenhaus, particularly during a period of significant budget cuts by Berlin's governing coalition.
The Left Party in Berlin has seen recent successes, becoming the largest party in the city during the February 2025 federal election and experiencing a surge in membership to over 14,000.
The upcoming leadership team aims to rejuvenate the party, foster inclusivity, and prepare for the 2026 elections, with a focus on social justice, affordable housing, and community engagement.