Following the attack in Aschaffenburg, in which a child and a 41-year-old man were stabbed to death by an Afghan man who is subject to deportation, the debate on expulsions has been rekindled. Chancellor candidate Friedrich Merz (CDU) has promised to take a hard line in the event of his election, outlining a five-point plan that includes the introduction of permanent border controls to prevent illegal immigration into Germany and the enforcement of deportations of foreigners who are subject to deportation.
In an open letter, AfD chancellor candidate Alice Weidel has approached Merz, offering the party’s cooperation. Weidel suggests that the proposals could be implemented before the federal election, as the necessary majorities are already in place. Weidel appeals to Merz, urging him to make the necessary decisions without further delay, as the upcoming parliamentary session offers an opportunity that should not be missed.
Weidel’s letter emphasizes that it is not acceptable for there to be further delays, during which the danger to citizens posed by foreign criminals continues to exist. She also offers the AfD’s availability for further discussions, stating that she and her faction are ready to engage in talks at any time.
Merz, on the other hand, has directed an appeal to the established parties, saying, “The cup is full”but adding that it ultimately does not matter to him who joins the effort. He emphasized that it is not just a question of addressing the AfD or the so-called “Brandmauer”(a reference to the AfD’s populist and nationalist rhetoric). Rather, the democratic parties have the opportunity to acknowledge that they have made mistakes in the past and to correct them.
Meanwhile, the CDU has characterized Weidel’s offer as a “poisoned gift.