The far-right party 'Alternative for Germany' (AfD) was recognized as the strongest party in Saxony-Anhalt after securing nearly 44 percent of the votes in the elections on September 6. This party narrowly missed achieving an absolute majority in the new state parliament and thus could not govern independently.
Reluctance to form a coalition
From the outset, the AfD has stated its desire to govern alone. The party believes it can only fully implement its agenda if it avoids coalitions with political allies. Its plans include mandatory work schemes for refugees and citizen oversight of immigration issues.
Attacks on political rivals
While Germany is debating whether to create a 'firewall' against the AfD, this party has long built a wall for itself, describing its political rivals as 'cartel parties.' Teresa Hausman from the University of Potsdam has examined the behavior of this party and other populist parties, stating that the AfD sees all other parties as part of a political entity that must be confronted.
After the electoral victory, Ulrich Siegmund, the rising star and main candidate of the party, said in an interview with a German public network: 'As a democrat, I extend my hand to all political forces that want fundamental change with us.' However, he immediately limited this offer with the statement: 'There will be no compromises from my side.'
Future cooperation with other parties
Currently, the only real ally that may exist for the extremists is the new 'Sahra Wagenknecht' coalition, which has recently entered the Saxony-Anhalt parliament. This party, founded by Sahra Wagenknecht, could act as a key for the AfD. However, AfD leaders have strongly attacked this party as well, and it seems they are unwilling to compromise or get closer to other parties.
Considering the current situation, the AfD is looking to attract voters disillusioned with other parties and increase its influence. Ultimately, this party seeks to maintain its radical agenda and avoid compromises with political rivals.
