Markus Söder rejects minijob abolition at CSU party congress

At the CSU party congress, Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder addressed several political issues, including pension reforms and the rise of political extremism. Söder stated that the abolition of 'minijobs,' a demand from parts of the SPD, is not part of the pension commission's mandate, though he affirmed that a retirement age of 63 remains a fixed component.

Söder expressed concern regarding the political landscape in Berlin, describing the current left-wing representation as 'extremely radical' and suggesting internal tensions exist within the SPD and the Greens. He emphasized the need for a clear line to protect the democratic center against both far-right and far-left extremists.

Additionally, EVP Chairman Manfred Weber reinforced the commitment to a 'firewall' against far-right parties, stating that cooperation will only occur with parties that support Europe, Ukraine, and the rule of law. Weber specifically rejected cooperation with members of the AfD, Le Pen, or Orban in the European Parliament.