Process for AfD observation
The Office for the Protection of the Constitution cites Meuthen as evidence
03/08/2022 12:24 p.m
Negotiations are being held in Cologne as to whether the Office for the Protection of the Constitution is allowed to monitor the AfD. The authorities refer to incriminating statements by the former party leader. The party itself speaks of an “unbelievable” opinion. In addition, the party cannot be held liable for statements made by individuals.
The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution argued in the proceedings about the classification of the so-called wing of the AfD as a suspected right-wing extremist, also with statements by the former party leader Jörg Meuthen. The ex-chairman who has left the party said himself that many party members are characterized by contempt for those who think differently. The Office for the Protection of the Constitution is convinced that Meuthen’s resignation shows that the so-called wing within the party is becoming more and more assertive. Efforts to limit the influence of the wing failed.
The Office for the Protection of the Constitution states, among other things, “continuous agitation against Muslims” and the portrayal of migrants as “invaders”. The view that the population of Germany must be preserved in its current ethnic composition is widespread.
The AfD denies the allegations. The claim that the wing is still active is unfounded. Meuthen’s statements today are “unbelievable” because he is guided by his own interests. The AfD has initiated party exclusion proceedings against individual extremists. Of course, not every statement made by every member can be attributed to the entire party. Incidentally, the CSU has made comparable statements on limiting the number of refugees.
The main issue in the proceedings at the Cologne Administrative Court is whether the Cologne-based Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution can classify the AfD as a suspected right-wing extremist and monitor and investigate it accordingly. The classification of the so-called wing as a suspected case is also the subject of the negotiations. The network founded by the Thuringian AfD head of state Björn Höcke has now been formally dissolved.