Germany’s first Turkish-origin state premier: Cem Özdemir wins

Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press

STUTTGART, GERMANY — Green Party politician Cem Özdemir is set to become Germany's first state premier of Turkish origin following a historic election victory in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg.

The victory has triggered significant reactions across the country, particularly within the Turkish and Kurdish diaspora, who view the result as a watershed moment for migrant representation in the upper echelons of German governance. Despite the celebratory mood, community leaders emphasize that while this victory is a breakthrough, it remains a rare exception in a political landscape where migrant backgrounds are still underrepresented.

A breakthrough for political representation

The Turkish Community in Germany (TGD) hailed the election result as a "historic step" toward greater political inclusion within German society. TGD President Gökay Sofuoğlu described the win as a success story marking the 65-year history of Turkish migration to Germany.

However, Sofuoğlu pointed out a persistent disparity in political power, noting that while nearly 40% of the population in Baden-Württemberg has a migrant background, they account for only 12% of parliamentary seats. "For this reason, Cem Özdemir's election victory is historic, but unfortunately, it is a major exception and not yet a norm," Sofuoğlu stated. He added that the victory represents a "normalization" of migrant success that will serve as an example for many young people from immigrant backgrounds.

Addressing the rise of the far-right

The Kurdish Community in Germany also issued a congratulatory message, praising Özdemir for his long-standing policies aimed at strengthening social unity and building bridges between diverse groups. The association recalled awarding Özdemir an honorary prize in 2015 for his dedication to democracy, human rights, and respectful coexistence.

Amid the celebrations, the organization expressed deep concern over the significant electoral gains made by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Their statement emphasized that the AfD’s political positions stand in fundamental opposition to the efforts of the democratic center to foster social solidarity and diversity within the country.

Polarization among nationalists and conservatives

While celebrated by many, Cem Özdemir remains a controversial figure among more nationalistic and conservative segments of the Turkish diaspora. In the past, he has been a vocal critic of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his supporters in Germany. Özdemir previously called for bans on the "Grey Wolves" movement and its associated symbols, a stance that has led to threats from ultra-nationalist circles.

During the Baden-Württemberg election cycle, reports emerged of smear campaigns directed at Özdemir by factions linked to Turkey's ruling AKP. Speaking to the press, Özdemir dismissed these attacks as confirmation of his political direction. "If supporters of Trump, Putin, and Erdoğan are against me, then it means I am doing something right," he remarked.

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