Grünen-Fraktionschefin Britta Haßelmann has called on designee Chancellor Friedrich Merz and incoming Union faction chief Jens Spahn (both CDU) to clearly position themselves against the AfD. The Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz has classified the AfD as a “confirmed right-wing extremist tendency”. “Those who continue to call for a ‘normalization’ are downplaying a party that attacks our constitution. Especially the Union with Friedrich Merz and Jens Spahn must face the dangers posed by this party and clearly position themselves”, said Haßelmann to the “Welt”. “The AfD is a constitutionally hostile party. Its upgrading to a confirmed right-wing extremist can no longer surprise anyone. We experience daily attacks by the AfD on human dignity, constitutional organs, democracy and the principle of the rule of law.” For her, it is clear: “Now there needs to be an immediate examination and timely initiation of a ban procedure. The Bundestag, the federal government and the Bundesrat are called upon.” Sören Pellmann, chair of the Left Party faction, called the new AfD classification “long overdue”. He demanded that “finally” a ban procedure be initiated: “We must not continue to watch as this right-wing extremist party tries to destroy our democracy from within.” However, a ban procedure could only be “part of the answer”, said Pellmann to the new federal government: “It is essential to offer political resistance to the right-wing. A policy that only makes the powerful more powerful and the rich richer, ruthless social erosion and the militarization of society pave the way for the right.” Pellmann also demanded: “Jens Spahn should now thoroughly reconsider his stance on the AfD. Those who now still call for normalization knowingly strengthen right-wing extremists and endanger democracy. The AfD has so far abused every mandate and every office for its anti-democratic and racist politics.” And: “Also from Friedrich Merz, who has pacted with the AfD on the issue of asylum, we now expect a reversal and a clear statement of intent to refrain from any normalization, toleration and cooperation.” For the SPD, the future coalition partner of CDU and CSU, the new AfD classification is a “clear constitutional signal”. The first parliamentary deputy Katja Mast said: “The AfD systematically pursues the goal of tearing apart the political and social order of our country. The comprehensive and independent assessment is confirmed by credible evidence.” Now a “clear, joint response from the rule of law is necessary. We will consult with our coalition partners on further action towards the AfD.” The SPD faction has long refused to grant the AfD chairmanship of committees or a Bundestag presidency. Mast affirmed: “Once again, it confirms for me that representatives of the AfD are not eligible for office and cannot represent democrats.
Greens and Left demand CDU take clear stance against AfD
