The start of the congress for Germany’s far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party was delayed this morning due to large-scale protests in the vicinity. Demonstrators blocked access roads, preventing many of the party’s 600 delegates from arriving on time.
Disrupted Schedule
The congress, taking place in Riesa, Saxony, in eastern Germany, was initially scheduled to begin at 10:00 am. However, only a small fraction of delegates had managed to enter the venue by the designated time. An hour and a half later, the session was still unable to commence as disruptions continued.
Protesters, many of whom had travelled from across Germany, staged blockades on roads leading to the event. The German press agency DPA reported that Alice Weidel, one of AfD’s co-leaders, was among those delayed. Weidel’s nomination as the party’s candidate for the federal chancellorship is a key item on the congress agenda.
Widespread Demonstrations
Activists from various organisations gathered in Riesa to oppose the AfD, citing the party’s controversial policies and rhetoric. The protests underline the widespread opposition the AfD faces, despite its increasing presence in German politics. The party, often described as far-right and populist, has been criticised for its stance on immigration, climate policy, and the European Union.
Demonstrators employed tactics such as road blockades to impede access to the venue, and reports indicate that police were on-site to manage the situation. However, the scale of the protests significantly hampered the congress’s proceedings.
Political Context
The congress in Riesa is a pivotal moment for the AfD as it prepares for upcoming elections. The nomination of a chancellorship candidate is expected to shape the party’s strategy and public image in the lead-up to the next federal election. Alice Weidel, who co-leads the party with Tino Chrupalla, is widely regarded as a central figure in the AfD’s leadership.
Russian Social Media Operations Boost ‘Alternative for Germany,’ Reports Reveal
The delays caused by the protests highlight the polarised political landscape in Germany. While the AfD has gained traction in certain regions, particularly in the east, its rise has been met with significant resistance from civil society groups, political opponents, and activists who reject the party’s ideology.
Security and Logistics
Local authorities in Saxony have faced challenges managing the logistics and security of the event. The region, which has historically been a stronghold for the AfD, has also seen counter-movements mobilise against the party’s activities. The disruptions in Riesa are the latest in a series of protests against the AfD across Germany.
The congress organisers have yet to confirm when the session will officially begin, with many delegates still struggling to reach the venue. Despite the delays, party representatives have expressed determination to proceed with the event once access is restored.
Broader Implications
The protests in Riesa serve as a reminder of the divisions within German society regarding the AfD’s role in the political arena. While the party continues to build support among certain demographics, its policies and rhetoric remain a source of contention, sparking fierce opposition from various sectors.
As the congress unfolds, attention will remain focused on the outcomes of the key discussions and the extent to which the party can address the challenges posed by its growing unpopularity among large segments of the population.
Read also:
Elon Musk’s Livestream With AfD Leader Sparks EU Concerns Over Platform Bias and Election Risks
