A senior figure within the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) parliamentary group in the German Bundestag, Jens Spahn, has expressed concerns regarding potential legal repercussions he anticipates under a hypothetical AfD-led government.
Speaking to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung (FAS), Spahn stated he believes he would be among the first individuals targeted by the AfD’s justice system should the party attain power. He cited decisions made during the COVID-19 pandemic as the reasoning behind this apprehension, referring to ongoing criticisms and accusations, including the use of the term “murderer.
Spahn has also appealed to left-leaning parties within the Bundestag to strengthen their collaboration with the Union in opposing the AfD. He emphasized that significant portions of the AfD, particularly its leading figures, appear to harbor a desire to dismantle the Union, considering it a crucial barrier against nationalist and far-right politics. Spahn drew parallels to situations in France and the Netherlands, arguing that the weakening of mainstream, center-right parties has enabled the rise of extremist movements. He urged his colleagues on the center-left to recognize the importance of a strong Union in preventing the AfD’s ascent.
Despite these warnings, Spahn defended his position advocating for the AfD to be granted the same parliamentary rights and privileges as other factions. He argued that restricting the party through administrative measures would not be constructive and that offering standard operational rights may be preferable. Currently, the AfD does not hold any committee leadership positions or vice-presidential roles in the Bundestag, as they have been unable to secure the necessary support.
