(de-news.net) – Markus Söder, Minister President of Bavaria and leader of the Christian Social Union (CSU), has expressed unequivocal opposition to any form of tax increases, instead underscoring the imperative of tax reductions. His remarks stand in marked contrast to recent statements by Lars Klingbeil, Federal Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), who proposed tax hikes as a means of addressing the substantial budgetary shortfalls projected through the year 2029. In response, Söder emphasized the critical importance of political reliability and fidelity to established agreements, characterizing such proposals as a breach of the coalition accord.

Söder further rejected the notion of negotiating tax concessions in exchange for extensive reforms to the Bürgergeld system. Nonetheless, he advocated for a comprehensive restructuring of Bürgergeld, calling for more stringent regulations to ensure that recipients cannot decline reasonable employment opportunities without facing financial penalties. He proposed a redefinition of entitlements, including revisions to housing allowances and the treatment of protected assets.

On the matter of pension reform, Söder indicated a willingness to consider structural changes, including the potential integration of a capital-funded component into the existing pension framework. While acknowledging the diversity of individual life circumstances, he expressed support for a more flexible approach to retirement age, calibrated to life expectancy. He affirmed that the CSU would give such proposals due consideration.