Controversy Rises over AfD Signs: Legality of Election Campaign Materials Sparks Debate
Stirring in Darmstadt: AfD Promo Posters Mocking Rivals Draw Attention
Curious posters promoting the AfD election and insulting CDU, Greens, and SPD have been grabbing headlines in Darmstadt. Officially, these posters are off the city's radar.
Off the City's Radar
A city spokesperson divulged that the posters aren't renowned to the public order office. Since they are slapped onto private properties, they don't need approval. Additionally, they represent election advertising, which is typically permit-free.
AfD Not Behind the Posters
The Darmstadt AfD district association shed light on the posters coming not from the AfD but from a private individual. Chairwoman Anja Swars couldn't pinpoint who this mysterious person might be. "That's why I didn't report the vandalized posters," Swars commented.
Millionaire Donor Under Investigation
Investigations by WDR and NDR suggest that the posters, valued above €2.3 million, can be traced back to a former Austrian far-right FPO (Freedom Party) functionary - Helmut M. Margreiter. This millionaire donor is well-known for financially fueling right-wing political campaigns.
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Other political parties in Darmstadt, such as the Greens, are engaged in discussions regarding the city's budget policies, given the FDP's criticism. meanwhile, the controversial posters mocking political rivals, thought to be connected to a millionaire donor under investigation, remain off the city's radar due to their placement on private properties and status as election advertising.