Daily · West Post
Germany’s chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has accused the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) of seeking ‘ethnic cleansing’ with its ‘remigration’ drive, following the party’s significant weekend victory in Saxony-Anhalt’s state election. In a parliamentary debate, Merz stated that the AfD’s racist campaign of mass deportations would threaten one of Germany’s economic pillars. He described ‘remigration’ as a synonym for ethnic cleansing based on origin and skin color.
Merz emphasized that millions of working immigrants are crucial to German society, warning that deporting them would collapse skilled trades, close care homes, hospitals, and restaurants. He also criticized the AfD’s rhetoric, which contributed to its record-high support for a far-right party since Nazi times. Merz acknowledged his unpopularity has hurt his party’s performance, despite his hardline stance on migration policy.
He noted Germany still has issues with migration but distinguishes between those who work and contribute to society and those who should leave. AfD co-chair Alice Weidel celebrated the victory, calling the CDU’s performance a referendum on Merz’s leadership. She blamed the government’s migration policies for security issues and vowed to implement policy changes.
Polls indicate the AfD remains strong, with Merz’s coalition facing challenges in federal elections.
Source: The Guardian
