German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Faces Backlash for Calling Black CDU Politician 'Court Jester'

The remark, made during a private event, has drawn accusations of racism, which Scholz strongly denies, calling the claims 'artificially constructed.'

During a private birthday event, Olaf Scholz referred to CDU politician Joe Chialo, who is of Tanzanian descent, as a 'court jester,' sparking widespread criticism.
The comment was made in the context of a discussion about the CDU's alignment with the AfD, with Scholz reportedly questioning the presence of liberal voices in the CDU.
Scholz has denied any racist intent, stating that the term 'court jester' is not racially connoted and accusing critics of manufacturing the controversy.
Prominent CDU members, including Friedrich Merz and Jens Spahn, have condemned the remark, calling for an apology and questioning Scholz's respect and judgment.
Joe Chialo has declined to comment on the incident, while Scholz has initiated legal action against the media outlet that first reported the story, accusing it of misrepresentation.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung