Despite the scandal, Markus Kurze remains chairman of the Saxony-Anhalt media authority

Despite the scandal, Markus Kurze remains chairman of the Saxony-Anhalt media authority

In a turbulent meeting on August 13, 2025, the Saxony-Anhalt media authority confirmed the CDU politician Markus Kurze as chairman. Despite a vote-out motion that received 12 of 27 votes, Kurze remains in the saddle and thanks the members of the assembly for their trust. The request for deselection arose due to serious allegations that were raised and that recently occurred during a state parliament summer party. Kurze, who was heavily intoxicated, is said to have put an employee's finger in his mouth. The politician himself describes the incident as an “accidental kiss on the hand,” which only fuels the discussion about his behavior.

The incident, which has been classified as sexual harassment by various media outlets, also sheds light on a larger problem in the world of work. Statistically speaking, 20 percent of employees report sexual harassment in the work environment, although a study by the Institute for Labor Market and Occupational Research (IAB) shows that women are particularly affected by this. Around 24 percent of women have had similar experiences, which is an alarming number and underlines the urgency of comprehensive information. The Deutschlandfunk points out that attacks predominantly take place between employees.

Resignations and new elections

Markus Kurze has also resigned from his position as parliamentary manager of the CDU in the state parliament, which is part of his personal consequences after the incident. He admits that he “obviously misjudged” the situation and announced that he would apologize to the woman concerned. She stated that she saw the incident as a massive violation of boundaries, which illustrates the seriousness of the allegations. CDU parliamentary group leader Guido Heuer expressed respect for Kurze's decision and described the allegations as serious.

Andreas Schumann, who was previously chairman of the Magdeburg city council, was elected as the new parliamentary manager. At 61, he brings many years of experience to the parliamentary group, as he has also been a member of the state parliament since 2016. Schumann is now taking responsibility for the organization and coordination of parliamentary work and is expected to bring a breath of fresh air into the parliamentary group.

Tasks of the Saxony-Anhalt media authority

As one of a total of 14 state media authorities in Germany, the Saxony-Anhalt media authority has the task of ensuring the approval and supervision of private radio and television offerings in Saxony-Anhalt. In addition, it monitors compliance with legal requirements, the protection of minors and the handling of program complaints. The promotion of community media is also one of its central tasks. In this context, the headline around Markus Kurze and his future role is particularly in focus.

The events surrounding Markus Kurze are not only important for politics in Saxony-Anhalt, but also highlight widespread problems in society. The public discussion about sexual harassment and the need to recognize and combat such behavior is as relevant as ever.