German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing severe criticism in Germany – including from his own political allies – following his recent statements against migrants.

His critics accuse him of adopting the rhetoric of the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) in an attempt to court its voters instead of promoting conciliatory messages.

Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), considered a conservative party, came to power in May after pledging to curb immigration to Germany and counter the growing popularity of the AfD.

The far-right party is currently the second-largest in parliament, and during Merz’s tenure as chancellor, it has continued to gain strength, even reaching first place in some polls.

Within Merz’s party and across the political system, debate is raging over how to approach the AfD and its supporters.

Some argue that it is a racist party whose agenda must be rejected outright, while others believe a tougher anti-immigration stance is necessary to compete for AfD voters.

Merz has been accused by critics of courting those voters with dangerous statements.

During a visit last week to the state of Brandenburg, Merz said his government was correcting the mistakes of previous administrations regarding illegal immigration.

“We have made significant progress on immigration,” said the chancellor, who took office in May, comparing his efforts with those of former chancellor Olaf Scholz.

“In the current federal administration, we have reduced the numbers by sixty percent between August twenty-four and August twenty-five”.

However, Merz added, “We still have a problem in our urban landscapes – and that is why the interior minister is working to carry out extensive deportations”.

His remark pointing to a “problem in urban landscapes” and linking it to mass deportations sparked outrage, as it appeared to frame ethnic diversity itself as an issue.

Yesterday, when asked by a journalist whether he intended to apologize for the controversial remarks, Merz refused – further intensifying criticism.

“I don’t know if you have children or daughters,” he replied.

“Ask your daughters, and I think you’ll get a pretty clear answer.

I have nothing to apologize for; on the contrary, I emphasize that we must change something”.

“Friedrich Merz is no longer shouting comments from the sidelines,” said Dennis Radtke, a senior member of Merz’s CDU and a member of the European Parliament.

“As chancellor, he bears a special responsibility for social cohesion, for cultural dialogue, and for shaping positive future narratives”.

Members of the Social Democratic Party, part of Merz’s coalition, also condemned his statements.

Party Secretary-General Tim Klossendorf accused Merz of sowing division and eroding trust, adding that he “expects more from the chancellor”.

Opposition politicians commented on Merz’s exchange with the journalist, saying it exemplified his alignment with the far-right narrative that portrays migrants as dangerous – particularly to German women.

“Either he’s too arrogant to apologize, or he really means it,” said Green Party leader Katharina Dröge.