Massive Protests and Heavy Security Surround AfD Congress in Essen
The city of Essen has become a fortress this weekend as the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) holds its annual congress. With streets blocked, metro lines closed, and a massive police force of 4,000 officers in riot gear, helicopters, and drones, the city is on high alert. The heightened security measures come as 50,000 protesters, according to organizers, and 20,000 according to authorities, gather to voice their opposition to the AfD. The protests have already resulted in several arrests and injuries, including nine police officers, two of whom are seriously injured.
Mohammed, a waiter in Essen, expressed his frustration with the situation, stating, “Instead of protecting the AfD, maybe they should protect us from them.” The protests are a response to the AfD's controversial stances and recent scandals, including a secret meeting with neo-Nazis and inflammatory statements by its European candidate, Maximilian Krah. The congress is taking place just three weeks after the European elections, where the AfD secured 15.9% of the votes, placing second.
Tensions and Clashes Mark the AfD Congress
The start of the congress saw significant clashes between protesters and police as activists attempted to block the entrance of the 600 delegates to the Grugahalle, the congress venue. The police responded with batons and pepper spray, leading to several injuries. The Essen Police reported that two riot officers were seriously injured and hospitalized after being attacked while escorting a politician. Despite these clashes, peaceful protests have continued throughout the city with thousands marching and chanting slogans against the AfD.
The city of Essen had previously tried to prevent the AfD congress by attempting to annul the rental contract for the venue, citing concerns over the dissemination of Nazi slogans. However, the party won the case in court. The congress is not only a logistical challenge due to the protests but also coincides with the Germany-Denmark Euro Cup match in nearby Dortmund.
Inside the congress, the AfD delegates are debating key issues such as the party's stance on the European Union and Germany's support for Ukraine. The party opposes sanctions against Russia and the shipment of weapons to Kyiv. The congress also involves organizational matters, including the re-election of co-leaders Tino Chrupalla and Alice Weidel. Despite internal disputes and criticisms, both leaders were re-elected with significant support from the delegates.
The AfD is also monitored by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution as a suspected far-right organization. In her speech, Weidel criticized the office and called for its abolition, receiving enthusiastic applause from the delegates. Polls indicate that the AfD could be the most voted party in upcoming regional elections in Thuringia, Saxony, and Brandenburg, complicating coalition formations as other parties refuse to collaborate with the far-right group.
- Activists and left-wing groups have been actively blocking roads and intersections to prevent AfD delegates from reaching the congress venue. The police have responded with force, using batons and pepper spray, leading to several injuries on both sides.
- The protests are not only about opposing the AfD's policies but also about promoting a message of tolerance and anti-fascism. Many families and citizens have joined the demonstrations, carrying colorful posters and chanting slogans against right-wing extremism.
- The city of Essen's mayor, Thomas Kufen, has been vocal in his opposition to the AfD congress, attempting to cancel the event through legal means and now leading civil protests against it. Despite the court's decision to allow the congress, Kufen continues to advocate for peaceful and legal forms of protest.
- The AfD's internal dynamics are also under scrutiny, with debates over leadership positions and organizational changes. The party's stance on various issues, including immigration and European Union policies, remains a focal point of discussion among the delegates.
