Politicians across Germany have expressed shock and grief following the death of Hubert Aiwanger, Bavaria’s economy minister and deputy minister-president and the leader of the Free Voters. Their messages offered condolences to his family and those close to him, while reflecting on his influence in Bavarian politics.
Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder called Aiwanger’s death an “absolute tragedy” and said his thoughts were with Aiwanger’s family and children. Ilse Aigner, president of the Bavarian state parliament, described the death as an unexpected loss for the legislature and for politics across the state.
Baden-Württemberg Minister-President Cem Özdemir said Aiwanger had been a combative politician who stood up for his convictions. Former federal transport minister Andreas Scheuer also remembered him as a passionate politician with clear beliefs.
Other condolences came from politicians including AfD leader Alice Weidel, Green Party parliamentary leader in Bavaria Katharina Schulze, and FDP figures Wolfgang Kubicki and Martin Hagen. Kubicki said Aiwanger’s unconventional, approachable style had shaped and stirred up Bavaria’s political landscape, while Hagen said he would be missed in Bavarian politics.
Sources: Handelsblatt.