Across Germany, tens of thousands have taken to the streets to protest against the cooperation between the CDU and the AfD, a move that has provoked widespread criticism. Demonstrations have been held in major cities including Berlin, Hamburg, and Erfurt, with participants ranging from political groups, unions, and environmental organizations to individual citizens. The protests were sparked by the controversial actions of Friedrich Merz, the CDU leader, who attempted to pass an asylum law with the backing of the AfD.
In Berlin alone, 6,000 people gathered outside the CDU headquarters, voicing their dissent against the party's direction. Events unfolded similarly in cities like Magdeburg and Fürth, where alliances criticized the perceived alignment with the AfD. The protests were not limited to the streets, as activists also targeted CDU offices with various acts of civil disobedience, including blocking public transport and occupying party buildings.
Criticism of Merz has come from high-profile figures, including former Chancellor Angela Merkel and current Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who denounced the collaboration as a breach of political decorum. Scholz emphasized that Merz's actions undermined established political norms and risked empowering the far-right.
As the political landscape faces increasing tension, more demonstrations are planned, with significant gatherings expected in Cologne, Essen, and Berlin over the coming days. The protests reflect a broader societal pushback against any political normalization of the AfD, underscoring a commitment to maintaining a distinct boundary between mainstream parties and far-right ideologies.
