CSU leader Markus Söder has decided to oppose the initiation of a ban process against the AfD, independent of the outcome of the legal dispute over the classification of the AfD as “definitely right-wing extremist”. In an interview with “Bild am Sonntag”, Söder stated, “I would consider a ban process the wrong way.” He further added, “An appropriate approach would be an overreaction.” Söder also criticized those who believe that a new group would simply emerge after the ban, stating, “One cannot play this game every three years and ban a party.”
Söder welcomed the suspension of the classification of the AfD as “definitely right-wing extremist” until a court ruling, calling it a “legally sound argument” that undermines those who claim it was not possible to legally challenge the classification. He emphasized that it is a “clean process.”
On the other hand, the chairwoman of the Green Party’s parliamentary group, Britta Haßelmann, strongly advocates for a ban process against the AfD and accuses CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann of underestimating the dangers posed by the AfD. Haßelmann told “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” (Sunday editions), “The CDU must now confront the dangers that emanate from the AfD and clearly position itself. The AfD is a constitutionally hostile party. Its classification as definitely right-wing extremist has just occurred.” She pointed out that attacks on human dignity, constitutional organs, democracy and the principle of the rule of law are commonplace in the AfD. Haßelmann demanded immediate examination and prompt initiation of a ban process, stating that the classification has significantly increased the urgency for the three constitutional bodies – the Bundestag, the federal government and the Bundesrat.
CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann, however, sees a ban process against the AfD with skepticism. He believes that such a process would be “highly politically dangerous” as stated in an interview with “Welt am Sonntag.” Linnemann cited the opinion of prominent legal experts that a ban process would be difficult under current circumstances and the outcome uncertain. He also emphasized that the dissatisfaction of many AfD voters cannot be banned. Linnemann had previously explained that dissatisfaction and frustration cannot be banned. He believes that the CDU should focus on addressing the concerns of the voters rather than initiating a ban process against the AfD.