Key Takeaways:

• Angela Merkel criticizes CDU leader Friedrich Merz for pushing migration legislation with AfD support.
• Merz's actions have raised concerns about a political "firewall" separating mainstream parties from the far-right.
• The migration debate intensifies just weeks before Germany's upcoming election on February 23.

BERLIN — In a rare and significant intervention, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel publicly criticized her successor, Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), for his recent collaboration with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on immigration legislation. Merkel rebuked Merz for effectively breaking a longstanding consensus among mainstream parties to avoid cooperation with the AfD, an approach that has historically been viewed as vital for maintaining democratic integrity in German politics.

The controversy erupted after Merz advocated for a non-binding motion that aimed to tighten Germany's migration policies, a proposal that narrowly passed with the support of the AfD. This marked a striking political shift, leading many to question the CDU's commitment to preserving the "firewall" designed to keep extremist parties at bay. "I think it was wrong no longer to feel committed to this proposal and to enable, with open eyes, a majority with votes from the AfD," Merkel stated, emphasizing the moral and political implications of such a move.

Germany’s political landscape has been deeply affected by a series of violent incidents linked to asylum seekers, which have shifted public sentiment regarding immigration. The CDU is currently polling at approximately 30%, leading the race ahead of the snap elections on February 23, with the AfD following at 20%.

During parliamentary debates, Merz defended his position, arguing that the necessity for effective migration policies superseded concerns about the party's support. “A correct decision doesn’t become wrong because the wrong people approve it,” he contended. His remarks drew ire from political opponents, including current Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who labeled the collaboration an "inexcusable mistake," signaling increased tensions as the election approaches.

The backlash against Merz has not only come from the left; members of his own party, including prominent politicians, have expressed dismay at the CDU’s alignment with the AfD. In less than a week, protests erupted across major cities in Germany, with thousands demonstrating against any perceived normalization of far-right influence in national policy. Public sentiment remains sharply divided as the conservative party navigates this turbulent political terrain, seeking both to quell fears over immigration and to maintain an electoral edge.

As the German parliament prepares for another vote on related legislation, the prospect of further collaboration with the AfD looms large, leaving many to wonder about the future direction of the CDU under Merz's leadership. Analysts have noted that these developments could have lasting implications not just for electoral politics but also for the broader democratic framework in Germany, which has long prided itself on resisting extremist influence.

This week’s events underline a critical juncture for German politics as the country confronts the challenges of migration, public safety, and political accountability. With the elections looming, the balance of power remains precarious, prompting both fervent support and staunch opposition to the strategies being pursued by Merz and his party.

For further details, refer to the original articles from CNN, Los Angeles Times, The Guardian, Al Jazeera, and BBC.