Following a landmark electoral victory in Saxony-Anhalt, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is advocating for collaboration with other political parties to form a government. The deputy parliamentary leader of AfD expressed the party’s readiness to assume power after securing 43.8% of the vote, just three seats shy of an outright majority in the state parliament.
Historic Win and Calls for Cooperation
Despite their strong performance, most political groups in Germany have traditionally refused to align with the AfD. Nonetheless, Beatrix von Storch, a prominent figure within the party, has urged political opponents to engage in dialogue, emphasizing the importance of respecting the electorate’s decision. She warned that a refusal to collaborate could lead to political instability or even necessitate new elections.
The AfD’s triumph marks the first time since World War Two that a far-right party has been this close to governing a German state, which would grant them control over crucial areas such as local policing and education.
Negotiations for Power
Ulrich Siegmund, the AfD leader in Saxony-Anhalt, echoed von Storch’s sentiments in a press briefing, proclaiming the party’s “clear mandate to govern.” He revealed that discussions with other parties began immediately after the election results and are expected to continue for some time.
The AfD is currently projected to win 39 seats in the 83-seat state parliament, falling short of the 42 required for a majority. In pursuit of governance, they are reaching out to individual members of the conservative CDU, who have expressed dissatisfaction with their own party leadership.
Potential Alliances and Policy Stances
One potential scenario involves the left-wing populist BSW party, which might provide passive support for an AfD-led minority government. The BSW, which is anticipated to secure five seats, shares some policy positions with the AfD, including a firm stance on migration and support for importing Russian gas.
Nationally, the AfD is leading in opinion polls, surpassing Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s ruling conservatives and the Social Democrats, although their primary support base remains in eastern Germany. In 2024, they won the state election in Thuringia but did not achieve a majority there either.
The AfD’s policies, particularly their “remigration” plan, remain contentious. This initiative is perceived as a strategy for mass deportations, although the party claims it targets only criminals and those illegally residing in the country.
