The Chairwoman of the Green Party, Franziska Brantner, has denounced the attacks on journalists carried out by left-wing demonstrators near the AfD’s party conference in Erfurt. Speaking to “Bild”, Brantner stated, “We reject any form of violence at such demonstrations.” She characterized the incident as an isolated case that she regretted, wishing a speedy recovery for those affected. She emphasized that the protection of press freedom is an absolutely non-negotiable fundamental right. Nevertheless, Brantner pointed out that the peaceful presence of tens of thousands of people over the weekend, demonstrating in favor of cohesion against far-right radicalism within a liberal and free democracy, serves as a testament to democratic strength.
Alexander Throm, the internal policy spokesman for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, also condemned the attacks. In remarks made to “Bild”, he asserted that anyone resorting to violence against journalists is attacking the very foundation of democracy. He stressed that freedom of opinion and press are central pillars of a free society, an principle that must hold true regardless of whether the aggression stems from left-wing or right-wing elements.
