Unified Response to Arson Attack on the Left Faction
In the peaceful town of Elmshorn, a political shift to the right and a recent arson attack on a left-wing district spokesperson's property have sparked concerns among local residents.
The arson attack occurred on the night of September 7th to 8th, targeting the garden house of Karin Kunkel, the Left district spokeswoman. Fortunately, the damage was limited to material losses, estimated to be several thousand euros.
The fire did not originate from self-igniting barbecue coal, and a technical defect can also be ruled out, as there is no power connection on Karin Kunkel's plot. The police's investigation suggests that there was no break-in, as nothing was stolen. However, the suspected attack bears the hallmark of right-wing violence.
The city of Elmshorn is not traditionally considered a stronghold of the right-wing scene in Schleswig-Holstein. Nevertheless, local politicians have noted a political shift to the right in the city.
In response to the incident, a demonstration against right-wing terror was held in Elmshorn, with around 60 people participating. SPD mayoral candidate Arne Klaus led the demonstration, emphasising the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of such incidents.
The news about Arne Klaus's attendance at the Left district association's garden festival the day before the fire was quickly spread on social media. The allotment colony where the festival took place is described as a "model idyll" of cultural diversity.
In a show of solidarity, a donation campaign titled "Solidarity remains our weapon" was launched on the Goodcrowd.org portal, raising 8,000 euros in a few days. The campaign received support not only from Schleswig-Holstein, but also from Hamburg and Lower Saxony.
Bundestag member Lorenz Gösta Beutin, who represents the Left in Schleswig-Holstein, called for a determined stand against the shift to the right. He urged the citizens of Elmshorn to remain vigilant and united in the face of such incidents.
Fear is spreading among the community for the first time, but Karin Kunkel does not want to be intimidated. She remains committed to her work and the values she stands for. The citizens of Elmshorn will elect their new mayor on September 28th, and the incident has underscored the importance of making an informed choice.
