The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has been recognized as the strongest party in the state of Saxony-Anhalt in the elections held on September 6, securing nearly 44 percent of the votes. The party narrowly missed achieving an absolute majority in the new state parliament, thus losing the opportunity to govern alone.
AfD's Extreme Agenda
From the very beginning, the AfD declared that governing alone is their desired outcome. The party believes that only by avoiding compromise with coalition partners can it fully implement its agenda. This agenda includes mandatory work schemes for refugees, citizen patrols to monitor immigration issues, and the elimination of all public support for democracy and civil participation programs.
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While Germany is debating whether a "firewall" against the AfD is an appropriate method to protect democracy, the party has effectively built a wall for itself. For years, the AfD has dismissed its political rivals as "cartel parties" and has equated them with criminal organizations.
Emphasis on No Compromise
Julius Sigmund, the rising star and leading candidate of the AfD, adopted a relatively conciliatory tone on election night, extending his hand to all political forces seeking fundamental change. However, he quickly clarified this offer with his own condition of no compromise and inflexibility.
Within the AfD, compromise is seen as a sign of weakness or betrayal of principles. According to Teresa Hausmann, a researcher at the University of Potsdam, this is not only common in Germany but also prevalent in many other countries with populist parties.
After winning the elections, Alice Weidel, co-leader of the AfD, launched a fierce attack on the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), stating: "The CDU/CSU can never win another federal election." The Christian Democrats were the biggest losers in this election, and some conservatives believe that the party has shifted to the left.
Coalition Prospects and Threats
The AfD is looking to attract voters disillusioned with the CDU, and it seems that their only real partners are the relatively new party "Sahara Wagenknecht Alliance" (BSW). This party has recently entered the Saxony-Anhalt state parliament and could emerge as a key player for the AfD. However, extremists within the AfD have recently attacked the BSW, labeling it as the "last cartel party."
The AfD clearly shows no willingness to compromise and is focused on pursuing its radical agenda. While the extremists seek change in rival parties, they may conclude that holding new elections is the only remaining way to gain power.
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