Bartsch and Ramelow are working to reinvigorate the party's chances after the departure of Wagenknecht, with Ramelow seen as a strong candidate for securing a mandate.

The Left Party in Germany has initiated 'Mission Silberlocke' with veteran politicians Gregor Gysi, Dietmar Bartsch, and Bodo Ramelow, aiming to secure at least three direct mandates in the upcoming elections.

Current polling indicates that Die Linke is struggling, with support between three to four percent, increasing the urgency for this initiative.

Gysi emphasized the critical nature of these elections, stating that failing to secure seats would diminish leftist representation in German politics amid a rightward shift.

This renewed focus on direct mandates is crucial as the Left Party has previously fallen below five percent in elections, losing its parliamentary status.

The initiative is a response to the party's existential crisis following the split from the faction led by Sahra Wagenknecht, which has significantly impacted their electoral performance.

Despite recent internal disputes, the party has gained over 3,800 new members since the end of the Ampel coalition, bringing total membership to approximately 56,800.

Gysi, although no longer in an official position, remains influential, actively defending climate activists and shaping public discourse.

Ramelow, the outgoing Minister-President of Thüringen, is eager to contribute to the campaign despite acknowledging a shift in his personal plans.

Co-chair Jan van Aken expressed optimism about winning three to four direct mandates, which would allow the party to enter the Bundestag even if they do not meet the five percent threshold.

The campaign will focus on key issues such as peace, social policy, climate policy, and gender equality, aiming to resonate with voters.

The trio aims to inject a sense of lightness into the campaign, which has struggled with low approval ratings, while addressing the perception of being led by 'three old white men'.