Ditch Find Adds To Minister’s Problems (Press, 26 January 1984)

On 26 January 1984, West German Defence Minister Mr Manfred Woerner faced heightened scrutiny following a significant security breach involving internal Defence Ministry data. The data, discovered in a roadside ditch near Koblenz, had been found by the news magazine "Stern" and comprised a computer printout detailing military procurements, including costs and part-numbers. It was supposed to have been destroyed by a local paper company, but instead, it raised alarm about a potential security lapse. Although a Defence Ministry spokesperson confirmed that the information did not contain any classified military secrets, members of the Opposition Social Democratic Party reacted strongly, labelling it a "security scandal of the first order" and demanding an explanation from Woerner during a Defence Committee meeting. The political situation was further complicated by the ongoing controversy surrounding Woerner's recent dismissal of General Guenther Kiessling, who was accused of associating with homosexual nightclubs. Kiessling has denied these allegations and suggested that they were part of a blackmail attempt. The Social Democrats are calling for Woerner's resignation based on his handling of Kiessling's case. During a meeting with senior military officials in Bonn, Woerner spent considerable time answering questions regarding the general's dismissal. Following the discussions, a carefully worded statement indicated that the military officers present acknowledged Woerner's need to act based on the evidence available to him as of 8 December 1983. However, it was also stated that should the evidence prove unsound, Kiessling’s reputation should be fully restored. The matter has sparked intense debate and scrutiny, with concerns raised from various political factions regarding the integrity of the investigations and the implications for military morale within the Bundeswehr (Armed Forces). Accusations against Kiessling based on eyewitness accounts of his alleged visits to a gay bar have been met with scepticism from both government and opposition members, further complicating Woerner’s political predicament. As the Defence Committee convenes, the focus remains on the fallout from these events and the future of Mr Woerner’s position amidst escalating calls for accountability.

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