The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party is riding high in the opinion polls in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt and could win an outright majority in regional elections there in September. It would be the first time a far-right party has held power in a German state since World War Two.
This weekend the AfD officially adopted what has been described as a radical and pro-ethnic German government programme for Saxony-Anhalt at a party conference in the central city of Magdeburg. The AfD's leading candidate in the state, Ulrich Siegmund, a TikTok star who was given a standing ovation by the delegates, said it was a historic moment, not just for Saxony-Anhalt.
He declared, The whole of Germany is watching this historic election, as he emphasized the need for a political turnaround in Germany. Siegmund's speech addressed growing concerns about safety and identity within the nation, declaring, Let's take back our country.
The programme, which is more than 150 pages long, contains plans to overhaul Saxony-Anhalt by clamping down on immigration and supporting large families of German origin. It also contradicts the federal coalition government's policies by advocating for improved relations with Russia.
Proposal highlights include a push for consistent deportations, free childcare facilities, and an agenda of 'remigration' targeting non-German residents, notably Ukrainians. The manifesto displays a pro-Russian stance, calling for the lifting of energy sanctions against Russia.
Eva von Angern, leader of the left-wing Linke Party parliamentary group, criticized the manifesto as a nightmare scenario, claiming it could lead to an authoritarian state that undermines democratic rights. Protests erupted outside the conference, reflecting tensions regarding the AfD's policies.
As Saxony-Anhalt—a historically AfD-stronghold—heads towards elections, the implications of this radical agenda could reshape not only regional policy but also hold consequences for the political landscape across Germany.
