Alice Weidel's nomination as the chancellor candidate for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) has sparked significant controversy and public unrest. The AfD's party conference in Riesa was marked by widespread protests, delaying the event's commencement. Demonstrators blocked access roads, leading to clashes with the police, who responded with measures including pepper spray and the deployment of horses and dogs.
Weidel's candidacy is notable for both her personal background as an openly gay woman in a predominantly male and conservative party, and for her radical rhetoric. Her acceptance speech was characterized by extreme positions, including plans to dismantle wind turbines and a call for the concept of "remigration," which suggests the deportation of immigrants, to be included in the party's platform. This marked a shift towards more extreme policies and aligned Weidel with controversial figures within her party.
The protests saw a considerable turnout, with organizers claiming up to 12,000 participants. The demonstrations were not without incident; six officers were reported injured, and a member of the Left party, acting as a parliamentary observer, was allegedly assaulted by police. The incident has led to calls for accountability and further investigations.
Weidel's nomination and the surrounding events underscore the increasing polarization in German politics. The AfD's strategic targeting of immigrant voters and its alignment with right-wing movements in Europe highlight the broader trend of rising nationalist sentiments. As Germany approaches its early elections in February, these developments could significantly impact the political landscape.
