The CDU Kaarst-Büttgen political morning pint at the Küppershof in Holzbüttgen was attended by a high-ranking guest on Saturday: Thorsten Frei, Federal Minister for Special Tasks and Head of the Federal Chancellery, spoke about the major political challenges - and about the particular importance of local politics.
At a time of global crises - from the wars in Gaza and Ukraine to the economic impact of international trade policy - Frei emphasised that the company's global presence was a key factor in the success of the project: "The local elections are perhaps the most important elections of all." He described local politicians as "Heroes and heroines of democracy" - a strong sign of appreciation for those who are directly involved on the ground and take on responsibility.
In Kaarst, this commitment is more important than ever. CDU parliamentary group leader Ingo Kotzian made it clear that the CDU, together with the Greens, had in no way prevented companies from settling here - on the contrary: "We have agreed to many requests. Unfortunately, the companies have decided otherwise."
CDU mayoral candidate Christian Horn-Heinemann made it clear what is at stake now: "We need to take back the mayor's office and move the city forward together." Kaarst is facing major challenges, particularly the threat of budget uncertainty. If the district takes control of the municipal budget, the city will lose its room for manoeuvre - a scenario that must be prevented.
Federal policy issues were also discussed: in terms of asylum policy, Thorsten Frei spoke in favour of examination procedures at the EU's external borders, including in extraterritorial facilities. According to Frei, this is conceivable. On the subject of the minimum wage, he showed understanding for the concerns of the agricultural sector, saying that there was a clear disadvantage here, particularly in competition with third countries. In countries such as Morocco, harvest workers earn the equivalent of just 8.50 euros - for the whole day.
Another topic: work in retirement age. Frei spoke out in favour of tax relief - an important incentive to use experience and commitment beyond regular working life.
The political morning pint has shown: Kaarst needs clarity, expertise and a change of course in the town hall. With a strong team and a committed mayoral candidate, the CDU is facing up to this responsibility.
