Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Minister-President Manuela Schwesig (SPD) has publicly called for the establishment of a federal and state working group to examine the possibility of a ban on the AfD party. Speaking to RTL and ntv on Thursday, Schwesig stated her support for setting up a joint body where all cases and findings related to the AfD could be gathered, followed by the appointment of an independent expert to offer recommendations.
She clarified that while politicians cannot unilaterally prohibit the AfD, only the Federal Constitutional Court holds the authority to make such a ruling. According to her view, the decision of whether and how to present the case should be evaluated by this hired expert, based on comprehensive data and findings. Discussions are currently underway among the German states regarding the formation of this joint working group.
The SPD Minister-President noted that two things are essential moving forward, stressing the importance of a deep, substantive political discussion. She strongly criticized the AfD for advocating policies that would harm the country, specifying their plan to exit the Euro, which she labels an “economic catastrophe.” Schwesig also pointed out that the AfD opposes the use of the special fund dedicated to renovating schools, constructing firehouses, and repairing roads. Furthermore, she insisted that the AfD has a duty to seriously consider the intelligence and findings provided by security authorities regarding the party, calling it a “serious threat.”
