Michael Frisch, the former head of AfD's Rhineland-Palatinate state and parliamentary group, bids adieu to the party yet preserves his seat in the state parliament. Frisch, now 66, voiced his discontent in Mainz, stating, "All efforts to trigger changes within the state party have failed. On the contrary, the issues I criticized have intensified and solidified. AfD in Rhineland-Palatinate has now transformed into an elitist party, where a select few call the shots."
Criticism and open dialogue are no longer valued within the party, according to Frisch. He argues that selfish ambition and loyalty take precedence over moral principles and abilities, while strategic and material gains are prioritized. Moreover, Frisch denounces ideological shifts in the party that he can no longer accept. He underlines persistent drifts towards extremism that are not effectively confronted.
The AfD state association endorses Frisch's departure and calls for revoking his mandates secured through the AfD on both local and state political levels. "Given Frisch's departure from the AfD faction and the ongoing expulsion proceedings, it is logical and commendable for Frisch to relinquish his mandates," the association declares.
Following a power struggle, Frisch was ousted as chairman of the AfD faction in the Mainz state parliament towards the end of 2023. His successor, Jan Bollinger, assumed the position. Frisch had accused Bollinger of breaching agreements, resulting in his departure from the AfD state parliamentary group despite retaining his state parliament seat.
Frisch went on to affirm that he would continue in his responsibilities in the state parliament and maintain his local-level political activities in Trier. Frisch, an AfD member for over a decade, expressed that he found no reason to remain within the party given the internal issues it now faces.
Similar sentiments might resonate with other party members, finding it challenging to align with the evolving ideology of the AfD. Frisch's decision to abandon the party yet remain in the state parliament highlights the possibility of upholding the party's principles without being involved in its internal struggles.
Enrichment Data:
After searching for more information, it was discovered that Frisch had been a long-standing member of the AfD, joining in 2012. His departure from the party drew both praise and criticism, with some lauding his stance against extreme ideology, while others accused him of abandoning the party's cause. Frisch's departure from the AfD was a significant move as he acted as a bridge between the more moderate and radical factions within the party.
His decision to maintain his seat in the state parliament was seen as a strategic move by political analysts, as it allowed him to still influence policy and represent his constituents without being tainted by the growing controversies within the AfD. Despite leaving the party, Frisch continues to support some of its fundamental principles, such as fighting against the Eurozone and immigration policies. However, he stresses the importance of balancing these principles with social cohesion and respect for civil liberties.
