Kreuzberg Politician Turgut Altug Leaves Greens, Citing Disconnect adn Concerns Over The Left Party
Berlin – Turgut Altug, a member of the Berlin House of Representatives for the Green Party since 2011, has announced his resignation from both the party and its parliamentary group. The Kreuzberg politician cited a growing disconnect within the political landscape and expressed deep concerns regarding the direction of The left party (Die Linke), specifically criticizing their policies and internal issues.
Altug’s departure underscores increasing tensions within Berlin’s political sphere, particularly regarding housing policy and accusations of antisemitism. He highlighted the irony of The Left’s push for nationalization of housing, given the party’s predecessor, the PDS, spearheaded the privatization of municipal housing in the early 2000s – a move he argues continues to worsen Berlin’s housing crisis. He also voiced frustration over what he perceives as insufficient action against antisemitism within The Left’s youth wing, stating, “Anti-Semitism in our own ranks hardly fought.”
The 60-year-old Altug, who secured his seat through a direct mandate, intends to remain a member of the Berlin House of Representatives. He previously served as a spokesperson for nature conservation, environmental and nature education, nutrition, and agriculture. Altug’s decision comes amid a broader debate about political alignment and the challenges of addressing complex issues like affordable housing and rising extremism. He expressed a belief that “the vast majority lives in their own ‘bubble’,” suggesting a lack of genuine engagement and understanding across the political spectrum.