BSW Thuringia faction defies national board on coalition

The BSW state parliamentary group in Thuringia has voted to remain in the governing coalition despite demands from the party's national leadership.

This internal conflict threatens the stability of the "blackberry coalition" — a partnership between the CDU, SPD, and BSW — and highlights a rift between regional governance and national party strategy.

The dispute centers on the future of Minister President Bodo Voigt. The BSW national board is calling for the end of the coalition and the resignation of Voigt following the revocation of his doctoral title ^[3].

Sigrid Hupach, the BSW parliamentary group leader, said the faction reached its decision after intensive deliberation. "The BSW faction has, after intensive consultation, unanimously passed the resolution to remain in government policy," Hupach said ^[1].

While the national leadership in Berlin pushes for a government collapse, the Thuringian wing remains committed to its role in the administration. The tension reflects a broader struggle within the BSW over how to handle ethical lapses within its coalition partners.

Some within the party are less patient with the current leadership. One unnamed BSW minister said, "It is time" ^[2].

Despite these internal pressures, the unanimous vote by the state faction suggests a strong regional desire to maintain executive power in Erfurt. The national board, led by De Masi, continues to advocate for a change in government to maintain the party's integrity ^[2].