German MP Manuel Gava Admits Cocaine Use, Withdraws Re-Election Bid

The SPD representative for Osnabrück cited political pressures and personal struggles as reasons for his drug use and decision to step down.

Manuel Gava, a 33-year-old SPD Bundestag member, admitted to regular cocaine use during a period from summer to late 2023.
The drug use was uncovered through investigative reporting by Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung and Tagesspiegel.
Gava stated that he used cocaine primarily on weekends to cope with the pressures of political life and personal difficulties.
He announced that he will not seek re-election in the upcoming February 2025 Bundestag election, stepping back from his role representing Osnabrück since 2021.
The revelation comes during a politically tense period in Germany, with a government crisis and an impending national election.