- Critique of video featuring an AfD politician wielding a rifle
CDU's Hessian Interior Minister Roman Poseck has expressed shock over a militant video briefly appearing on TikTok by AfD state parliamentarian Maximilian Mück. The video, now removed but obtained by the German Press Agency, showcases Mück brandishing an assault rifle and shouting "Arms for the unhindered citizens!" before discharging three rounds into the air.
In relation to the Solingen attack, Mück asserted, "Safety has evaporated in German cities, and one must be vigilant against being assaulted or slain at a party or on the journey home." An AfD spokesperson claimed that Mück mistakenly uploaded the video on TikTok for a few minutes, intending it for personal use only.
Poseck voiced his concerns, stating, "It appears that the advocacy for armed violence in immigration policy is being encouraged here. This is appalling. Such actions come with a significant risk of triggering actual violence outbreaks."
Mück: Video filmed at Polish shooting range
As reported by an AfD spokesperson, Mück claimed that the video was recorded at an authorized shooting range in Poland under the guidance of a shooting instructor. The rented weapon adhered to all Polish regulations. He is an up-and-coming competitive shooter.
Nonetheless, Mück faced criticism even within his party. Hessian AfD faction leader and co-state chairman Robert Lambrou stated, "Wielding a weapon during political discussions and subsequently firing it is a line that should not be crossed. It's a political approach that I detest vehemently. Consequences will ensue from this video."
Mück's actions to be scrutinized
According to Hessischer Rundfunk (hr), Lambrou had previously acknowledged that Mück often presented well-argued viewpoints, echoing the opinions of numerous federal citizens. Yet, he claimed he would never share such a video himself. The video will be scrutinized within the AfD faction.
All other four parties in the Wiesbaden state parliament expressed dismay. CDU Interior Minister Poseck, during the presentation of the Hessian Office for the Protection of the Constitution report 2023, remarked, "This reveals the true character of this party." He perceived a sense of closeness towards the AfD leadership in Hesse rather than distance.
No police report filed
The Wiesbaden public prosecutor's office reported that, to their present knowledge, no police report has been filed against Mück's video. No investigation is currently underway. However, the AfD celebrated significant victories in the state elections in Thuringia and Saxony on Sunday, where they are considered firmly embedded as extreme-right groups.
- Despite the CDU's condemnation of Mück's actions, some AfD supporters in Hesse continue to view him favorably, as shown by the party's success in recent elections.
- In response to the CDU's criticism, the Hessian AfD faction leader, Robert Lambrou, stated that he strongly opposes Mück's use of a weapon during political discussions and will take appropriate actions within the party.
