This is how Claudia Pechstein justifies her uniform appearance at the CDU

By Karina Moessbauer

The athlete (main job federal police officer) appeared at the CDU future convention on Saturday, spoke about sports policy issues as well as asylum and security policy – in uniform. There was immediate criticism of this.

With her appearance, Pechstein violated the state neutrality requirement by giving a party-political speech in a police uniform, it was said. The federal police even initiated a legal review of their appearance.

Is it getting uncomfortable for Pechstein now?

One thing is clear: The Federal Civil Servants Act states: “When engaging in political activities, civil servants must exercise moderation and restraint that result from their position in relation to the general public and from consideration for the duties of their office.”

Pechstein defends himself

In BILD, Pechstein defends herself against the allegations, saying why she chose the official uniform. “I am not a CDU member. I was a guest at the CDU – as an athlete, civil servant and federal police officer,” said Claudia Pechstein to BILD.

According to the police service regulation (PDV) 014, number 3.2 “Service clothing off duty”, wearing the uniform off duty is permitted and only prohibited in the event of illness or when exercising a public honorary post.

“There is no express ban on wearing a uniform at party events,” Pechstein told BILD.

Pechstein: “I’m proud to have been a federal police officer for 30 years. It’s an honor for me to wear this uniform. I would wear them again.” She also has the federal police to thank for her sporting career.

According to her own statements, Claudia Pechstein had asked both a union representative of the federal police and a supervisor in the run-up to the appearance. According to Pechstein, she was free to appear in uniform.

In addition to the criticism, the hobby politician apparently also received approval. “I was asked to provide impetus for the new basic program of the CDU. The numerous positive messages that have reached me in the meantime show that there were some suggestions that met with great approval from the population. Thank you very much for that,” she said.

Thuringia’s CDU boss Mario Voigt (46) to BILD: “Claudia Pechstein is one of the most successful winter athletes of all time. We should be proud of what she has achieved for our country in the world. I am glad that she found clear words at our principle convention. That is what makes a lively people’s party.”

CDU leader Friedrich Merz also rejected the criticism of Pechstein. “The performance was brilliant,” said Merz on the ZDF program “Berlin direct” on Sunday. Pechstein said from her experience how important clubs and popular sports are. This statement really interests him and not the exterior, said Merz. The content “was really interesting and it also motivated us a bit to continue working in this direction,” says Merz.

Pechstein’s points of view

Pechstein had campaigned on Saturday at the CDU event to strengthen club and school sports. She also called for the deportation of rejected asylum seekers. This ensures more security in everyday life.

Not being able to use public transport “without anxious looks” is one of the problems that particularly affects older people and women. Improvements there should be more important “than thinking about whether we should put a gender asterisk or whether a concert can still be called a ‘German recital’ or whether it’s still allowed to order a gypsy schnitzel,” said Pechstein.