Three individuals succumbed to knife-related violence. - Discussion surrounding the implications of the Solinger incident in Saxony
Following the knife attack in Solingen, there's a discussion in Saxony about the aftermath, which resulted in three deaths and several injuries. Michael Kretschmer (CDU), the state's leader, believes the federal government is accountable. He stated, "Despite all the sorrow, it's crucial to acknowledge: Now is the time to put an end to appeasement and inaction. The federal government must finally take action," speaking to the German Press Agency in Dresden. All 16 state leaders have reached a consensus for significant migration reduction.
On a Friday evening, a man supposedly indiscriminately attacked bystanders during a festival celebrating Solingen's 650th anniversary. In the chaos and panic that followed, the attacker fled. Three victims, a 67-year-old man and two 56-year-olds (one man and one woman), lost their lives. Eight individuals were wounded, four of them seriously. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack; however, no Islamist motive has been confirmed by security authorities at this time. On Saturday night, a 26-year-old Syrian man surrendered to investigating authorities and is now in custody.
Once more, Kretschmer advocates for limiting migration
His proposed figure for future refugee policy in Germany should be less than 320,000 people, like in the previous year, with a target of around 50,000. He stated, "Our neighboring country, Denmark, sets a good example. Germany is capable of achieving this if the federal government demonstrates its willingness to act." Even repeat offenders should be deported consistently, as they often avoid deportation currently.
Interior Minister Armin Schuster (CDU) called for stricter border control and consistent deportation, stating, "My patience for political promises and surprise has expired. The traffic light coalition has overlooked migration policy as a negligent debtor since its inception." He proposed deportation flights to Syria and Afghanistan and a suspension of family reunification for individuals granted subsidiary protection.
SPD Politician Köpping warns against exploitation of the act
Social Minister Petra Köpping (SPD), the leading candidate for her party in the state election, expressed concern. "Right-wing forces are using this heinous act of an individual to indirectly or directly link all refugees and individuals of Muslim faith to terrorist organizations. We cannot allow this." It's essential to protect young Muslims from extremist ideologies on the internet or direct recruitment attempts by terrorist organizations.
Köpping considered the attack a cruel act. "It underlines the devastating effects of Islamic terrorism. It's right to implement effective legal regulations and capable security authorities to combat terrorism and violence."
In the discussion surrounding gun control toughness, the Free Voters opposed a general knife ban. "We don't have a gun problem in Germany, but a criminal problem. Those who reject our laws, wish to establish Sharia, and dislike our society will not be deterred by a knife ban," explained top candidate Matthias Berger. The number of crimes committed by migrants is concerning. "We demand stricter punishment for asylum seekers who violate our basic laws. Those seeking refuge in Germany must adhere to our rules – otherwise, they have no place in our society."
Kretschmer: Sympathy for the deceased, injured, and their families
Politicians in Saxony expressed shock over the Solingen incident. Kretschmer recalled, "The arson attack in Solingen in the 1990s was a distressing experience for reunified Germany." He then cited survivor Mevlüde Genc's words, 'And yet, I did not react with hatred,' which were profound. "Thirty years later, a horrendous attack occurs in the same city – but it could have happened anywhere in Germany. Our thoughts are with the deceased, injured, and their families." Similarly, Köpping stated, "We mourn the victims. We worry about the injured. We offer our condolences to the families and to all those who had to witness this tragic event firsthand. Our deepest gratitude extends to the emergency services, and our highest respect to the security authorities for their swift response."
- The discussion in Saxony about the aftermath of the knife attack in Solingen is strongly critiqued by Michael Kretschmer, who believes that the federal government should take more action to prevent such incidents.
- In response to the knife attack in Solingen, some politicians are calling for stricter border control and consistent deportation, arguing that the current policies allow repeat offenders to avoid deportation.
