Mass Protests Erupt Against AfD Leader's Hamburg Visit

In Hamburg, a massive demonstration unfolded as over 16,000 people took to the streets to protest the visit of Alice Weidel, leader of Germany's right-wing AfD party. Organized by the Hamburg Alliance Against the Right, the protest saw participation from leftist groups, associations, trade unions, and various political parties. Demonstrators carried banners with messages like 'Protect Democracy!' and 'Radical Love Now!' as they marched from the central train station to the Rathausmarkt.

The city's mayor, Peter Tschentscher, and other political figures criticized Weidel's visit, labeling it unwelcome. Demonstrators' attempts to breach police barricades led to a significant police deployment of around 1,500 officers, resulting in roadblocks and traffic disruptions in the city center.

Despite the tensions, the protest remained largely peaceful, with only isolated attempts to break through the barriers. The event underscores the strong opposition in Hamburg against the AfD's presence and rhetoric, reflecting the city's commitment to diversity and openness as enshrined in its constitution.