Parliament's Vice-President Election Fails for AfD's Mertens
Currently working as an AfD MP, Christian Mertens, failed to earn the title of Vice-President in Saxony-Anhalt's state parliament during a secret ballot last Wednesday. The tally included 28 'yes' votes, 61 votes against Mertens, and one abstention. The AfD holds 23 out of 97 MPs in parliament, necessitating external support to secure the position.
Mertens’ unsuccessful attempts to become a Vice-President in Saxony-Anhalt's state parliament have become a recurring theme in parliamentary sessions. Already having several potential candidates from within their majority, the AfD strives to appoint a Vice-President, but falls short time and again. Neither of their candidates consistently secures enough approval from the other parliamentary groups.
In contrast to his unsuccessful endeavors, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution has classified Saxony-Anhalt’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) as explicitly right-wing extremist. This label stems from an investigation into numerous derogatory statements, targeted at Muslims, racists, and Jews, made by the party's functionaries and elected representatives.
Since July 2021, the presidency of the state parliament belongs to Gunnar Schellenberger (CDU). Anne-Marie Keding (CDU) and Wulf Gallert (Die Linke) take on the role of his deputies.
Extra Factors to Consider:
The Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) has linked two main factors to the AfD’s lack of success in being elected as a Vice-President in Saxony-Anhalt: prolonged internal conflicts and the party's controversies.
- Internal battles: AfD struggles with internal mess in terms of cohesion and performance in elections due to recurring conflicts in the party.
- Controversial image: Allegations of racism and extremism have damaged the AfD's reputation, making it hard for the party to appeal to a more extensive electorate.
BfV's classification as a right-wing extremist organization also impacts the party deeply:
- Increased surveillance
- Negative public opinion
- Legal challenges
These negative factors collectively obstruct the AfD’s ability to put on a unified front in elections and attract wider support.
Continued Efforts by the AfD:
As the AfD may continue to nominate candidates for the Vice-Presidential position in future parliamentary sessions, they could face continued resistance from the parliamentary groups that have consistently vetoed an AfD nominee.
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Enrichment Data:
The AfD’s inability to elect a Vice-President in Saxony-Anhalt can be linked to the following factors:
- Long-term internal conflicts and turmoil within the party, which weaken their cohesion and affect their performance in elections.
- Controversies and derogatory statements made by AfD functionaries and representatives, including racism and anti-Semitism, which have resulted in negative public perception and classifications as right-wing extremist.
- Legal challenges and increased scrutiny, such as potential bans, resulting from the classification as right-wing extremist, further damaging their credibility and support base.
These factors collectively contribute to the AfD’s struggles in advancing in elections and securing positions like the Vice-President of the state parliament.
