Berlin Left Party politician Vanessa Emde reaffirmed on 8 November 2026 that she would not give up her seat in the Congress of Deputies . In doing so, she is defying calls from bodies within The Left, which had previously urged her to step down. According to consistent media reports, Emde cited her directly won constituency seat and said she would continue to hold it.
The affair has immediate consequences for the formation of a new coalition in Berlin. SPD and Greens had exploratory talks with the Left Party temporarily suspended and set conditions relating to allegations of antisemitism and extremist positions. Both parties say trust is a prerequisite for further talks. Within the Left Party, some support Emde’s decision, while others are calling for disciplinary action. By the evening, there was no consistent official decision on what should happen next.
The state party says parliamentary groups must decide for themselves on their internal affairs, and that formal measures are subject to strict rules. Legally, a seat is also a free mandate and cannot be taken away by a party. Politically, however, her refusal increases pressure on the State executive, which must establish clear future rules of conduct and boundaries so that exploratory talks with the SPD and the Greens can resume.
The dispute stems from controversial appearances and statements during the election campaign, as well as debate over whether Emde should join the new parliamentary group in the House of Representatives. Critics in the SPD and Greens say red lines have been crossed; representatives of the Left Party point to internal discussions and a willingness to talk. One thing is clear: a coalition is difficult to envisage without firm agreements between the three parties on standards and procedures.
In the short term, the conflict is likely to slow the formation of a government in Berlin. In the medium term, the Left Party’s ability to negotiate depends on whether the state executive can enforce a position that has support within the party and is acceptable to the SPD and the Greens. For Berlin’s opposition and government options, it will be crucial whether exploratory talks can continue in a structured way or whether alternatives need to be considered.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).