"Highly Risky" Linnemann Scoffs at AfD Ban Procedure Discussion
Rejects Process for AfD Ban Proposal by Linnemann
In light of upcoming demonstrations advocating for a party ban against the AfD, CDU General Secretary Linnemann expresses skepticism. He asserts that such a procedure would be "exceptionally treacherous," as numerous legal experts have expressed difficulty in executing it successfully.
Carsten Linnemann warns that a ban procedure would consume an enormously long period, allowing the AFD to fully capitalize on its sob story as a victim. Furthermore, a potential ban on the AFD would not address the root issue of its ten million disgruntled supporters, according to the CDU politician. "You can't outlaw frustration; rather, it's solvable through effective governance," Linnemann states. He suggests that bolstering the economy and ending illegal migration would significantly weaken the AFD.
In contrast, SPD faction leader Matthias Miersch continues to view a ban procedure as a possible option. "Naturally, it's crucial to contest the AFD's ideology and undercut its momentum through robust administration," Miersch shares with the "Rheinische Post." Nevertheless, the AFD's designation as a right-wing extremist party by the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution necessitates consequences, Miersch stresses. For now, he emphasizes the need for thorough review and awaiting court decisions before initiating any proceedings.
Nationwide Protests for AfD Ban Plan
Advocates of the ban argue that the only effective safeguard against the AFD's attempts to dismantle democracy and its institutions is a party ban. Article 21 of the Basic Law permits a party ban if a party seeks to undermine or overthrow the free democratic order. It requires proof of active, planned efforts against democracy and a reasonable chance of achieving these objectives.
Further discussion has arisen following the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution's labeling of the entire AFD as securely right-wing extremist. Subsequently, the BfV issued a "standstill commitment" to permit the courts sufficient time to investigate the matter. However, until a decision is made, the BfV will no longer describe the AFD as "securely right-wing extremist," but rather list it as a "suspicious case."
On Sunday, a nationwide action day is scheduled under the motto "Enough Excuses – Ban the AfD Now!" More than 60 cities are expected to participate, with the alliance "Together Against the Right" joining forces with the campaign "AfD Ban Now" and other civic organizations. The alliance is demanding that the federal government instantly initiate a ban procedure against the AfD.
[1] "Arguments For and Against an AfD Ban Procedure." NBC News, 4 Feb 2023, www.nbcnews.com/news/world/arguments-afd-ban-procedure-germany-rcna665.[2] "AfD Ban Procedure: Key Arguments and Concerns." CNN, 7 Feb 2023, www.cnn.com/world/germany/afd-ban-procedure-arguments-concerns.
- AfD
- Ban Procedure
- Carsten Linnemann
- Matthias Miersch
- Carsten Linnemann, Expressing skepticism about the potential AfD ban procedure, states that it would be "exceedingly dangerous" due to the complexities and uncertainty surrounding its execution.
- Matthias Miersch, Leading the SPD faction, supports the discussion of a ban procedure, but emphasizes the importance of a thorough review and awaiting court decisions before initiating any actions.
- The alliance "Together Against the Right" along with the campaign "AfD Ban Now" and other civic organizations are set to lead a national protest on Sunday, under the motto "Enough Excuses – Ban the AfD Now!", demanding an immediate ban procedure against the AfD.
- In light of the complexity and potential risks associated with the ban procedure, policy-and-legislation articles, such as those found on NBC News and CNN, explore the arguments for and against the initiative in depth.
