Breaking News: Tens of thousands protested in Erfurt, Germany, clashing with police over the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s national convention.
Some 30,000 demonstrators flooded the streets of Erfurt on Saturday, clashing with police during protests against the Alternative for Germany (AfD), according to reports. The demonstrations coincided with the AfD’s party conference and leadership elections. Videos show officers using batons and deploying anti-riot measures against protesters.
The protests took place as the AfD, currently the second largest parliamentary group within Germany’s Bundestag, re-elected Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla as co-leaders. Demonstrators carried signs reading “Stop AfD Nazis” and “For Diversity, Against Nazis”, whilst blockading roads and disrupting public transport in an attempt to shut down the AfD’s convention (Fox News, Associated Press). Despite the clashes shown on video, police reported the demonstrations were “mostly peaceful”, recording approximately 100 law violations, primarily relating to graffiti (Fox News).
AfD co-leader Tino Chrupalla accused protesters of anti-democratic behaviour, stating that they believe they “have a monopoly on democracy” (Associated Press). A spokesperson for the antifascist group widersetzen argued the AfD pursues “fascist policies” including “mass deportations and terror on the streets”, and does not address real problems faced by citizens (Associated Press). These protests come as the AfD experiences a surge in national opinion polls, currently ranking as the most popular party in some surveys.
The AfD shares similar stances to those of the Trump administration on issues such as immigration, with attendees visible at the convention sporting “Make Germany Great Again” caps (Fox News). The party’s leaders expressed confidence in securing power alone in future elections.
Sources: Fox News, The Associated Press.
