Briefing
Bavarian Minister for Economic Affairs and Deputy Minister-President Hubert Aiwanger died in Berlin on 4 November 2026. According to the Berlin public prosecutor's office the 55-year-old was found lifeless in a hotel that evening. Police and prosecutors opened a death investigation to establish the cause of death and rule out possible third-party involvement. His family was informed that evening.
Condolences quickly came in from Bavaria. The Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy said it was deeply saddened. The Bavarian State Parliament said Aiwanger had been taken from the political arena in the midst of everyday business. The State Chancellery praised his role in the Bavarian government and also asked that the family's privacy be respected.
According to consistent accounts from official and media sources, Aiwanger was in Berlin for political engagements. A public appearance had been announced for the afternoon; he had reportedly withdrawn earlier for health reasons and could not be reached afterwards. Emergency services found him only that evening in the hotel where he was staying. Investigators stressed that they could not provide further details at present because enquiries were ongoing.
Aiwanger shaped the Free Voters for years: he led the Bavarian branch from 2006 and the national party from 2010. In the state government, he had been responsible for the economy portfolio since 2018 and was also deputy head of government. Political colleagues and representatives of other parties recognised his distinctive approach to economic policy and his commitment to rural areas. What impact his death will have on coalition work in Munich remains unclear; decisions on appointments now rest with the Free Voters and the State Chancellery.
What is confirmed at present: the date of death was 4 November 2026, the place of death was Berlin, he was 55, and the Berlin public prosecutor's office has opened a death investigation. The specific cause of death and possible medical factors remain unknown. Investigators will release the results of any autopsy and further details at a later date. Until then, the government and parliament are asking people to refrain from speculation.
Editor: Daniel Mayer (Article created with AI assistance).