Berlin – Former Social Democratic Party (SPD) leader Saskia Esken delivered a forceful call to action against far-right extremism during the party’s federal congress in Berlin on Saturday, framing the recent electoral gains of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) as deeply concerning.
Esken stated that the AfD’s increased visibility and influence within the German parliament was even more disheartening than the SPD’s comparatively weak performance in the recent federal election. “As long as the SPD exists, we will fight against these enemies of humanity” she declared to party members, expressing confidence in eventual victory.
Her remarks came as the SPD prepares to debate a proposal on Sunday exploring the possibility of initiating legal proceedings to ban the AfD party. Esken voiced her support for the motion, signaling a firm stance against the far-right’s growing political presence.
During her speech, Esken also extended praise to her successor, Bärbel Bas, who was overwhelmingly elected party leader on Friday evening with 95% of the vote. Esken described Bas’s personal background – having risen through the education system as a first-generation university student – as “inspiring.
The transition follows weeks of internal debate within the SPD regarding its leadership following the federal election results. Esken had previously announced she would not seek re-election as party chair, paving the way for Bas’s decisive victory and a potential shift in the party’s strategic direction as it confronts a changing political landscape.
