Bavarian economy minister found dead

The conservative politician, who also chaired the Free Voters party, was discovered lifeless in his room at the Neuer Fritz hotel in central Berlin on Wednesday, according to Bild. His death was subsequently confirmed by the German news agency dpa and several other outlets.

Aiwanger had been scheduled to deliver a speech at the opening of his party's new Berlin office earlier that day but reportedly canceled his appearance after feeling unwell. He remained at the hotel and was later found dead after becoming unreachable.

Political Career

Aiwanger had served as Bavaria's economy minister and deputy prime minister since 2018, when his Free Voters formed a governing coalition with the Christian Social Union (CSU) under Markus Söder. He had led the party's Bavarian branch since 2006 and its national organization since 2010.

Known for his outspoken criticism of EU policies, Aiwanger frequently challenged Berlin and Brussels over economic regulations and energy policy. In 2019, he visited Russia to promote economic cooperation, arguing against sanctions that damaged business ties.

Controversial Views

He was also a vocal opponent of uncontrolled immigration, demanding stricter border controls and tougher deportation policies. In his final days, he blamed unrest sweeping Western Europe partly on poorly integrated migrant communities and left-wing extremists.

Aiwanger also attracted fierce criticism during the Covid-19 pandemic for refusing vaccination and insisting that it should remain a personal choice. In 2023, he faced controversy over an anti-Semitic pamphlet authored by his elder brother in the 1980s.

Election Results

Despite the controversy, the Free Voters secured 15.8% of the vote in Bavaria's 2023 regional elections, up from 11.6% in 2018, increasing their representation from 27 to 37 seats. However, they failed to enter the Bundestag in the 2025 federal elections, winning just 1.5% nationally.

The cause of Aiwanger's death has yet to be established, but police have found no indication of foul play, according to Tagesspiegel. He is survived by his longtime partner, politician Tanja Schweiger, and their two sons.