- Dissenters Prevent Performances of AfD Contender Höcke in Jena
Approximately 2,000 individuals demonstrated against the AfD in Jena, as per initial police figures, thereby thwarting a visit by party leader Björn Höcke. The authorities employed pepper spray and batons to quell the stubborn sit-down protests, as a police representative remarked. Fortunately, no injuries were noticed at first.
Höcke skipped the gathering
Initially, Höcke was scheduled to address a community discussion in a community center. The police announced the cancellation of Höcke's appearance due to safety concerns, following consultation with his security detail, the spokesperson added. Höcke chose not to attend the event, leading to the termination of the AfD gathering. Initially, fewer people were expected at the counter-protests, which were duly registered with the authorities.
In Thuringia, a new state parliament is due for election on September 1. The AfD currently stands at around 30%, suggesting it could emerge as the dominant force. The Thuringia Counter-Extremism Office categorizes the AfD in Thuringia as a confirmed right-wing extremist party.
Despite the cancellation of Höcke's appearance, the protest against the AfD in Jena continued with fervor. Subsequently, many critics accused the AfD of using fear tactics to suppress free speech.
