Overview
- Saxony Minister-President Michael Kretschmer told dpa that Bas’s wording was unacceptable and that an apology would be appropriate.
- He cautioned that such language risks stoking conflict between employers and employees as well as between left and conservative camps, emphasizing responsibility for cohesion.
- In her Juso address, Bas said the employers’ day made clear “who we must actually fight together against” and depicted mostly male attendees in comfortable armchairs.
- Her appearance at the employers’ event drew protest shouts and laughter over her statements on the pension package, and she said she was asked how much social security Germany can still afford.
- In an ntv interview, Bas said her remarks were misunderstood, highlighted her support for social partnership and prior compromises, and noted some attendees later apologized for the laughter.