Upcoming Voter Process in Saxony and Thuringia - Investigators Muno Warn on Local Voter Events: "Guard Democracy's Integrity"
For political analyst Wolfgang Muno from Rostock, the outcomes of the state elections in Thuringia and Saxony aren't merely a reflection of temporary feelings. "I have serious worries about democracy in Germany," he shared with the German Press Agency. It highlights "a fundamental critique and rejection of democratic rule of law and liberal, diverse democracy among significant parts of the population, particularly in eastern Germany."
Though it's merely state elections in smaller federal states, stated Muno, "the symbolic impact is enormous." For the first time post-war, a far-right party has emerged as the strongest force in a state. "This will also be noticed and debated abroad."
In Thuringia, the AfD, identified as securely far-right by the state's domestic intelligence agency, took the lead. In Saxony, it positioned itself as the second-strongest force behind the CDU. Muno labeled the AfD and the recently formed alliance between Sahra Wagenknecht and the Left Party (BSW) as "populist dividers." Other parties might find it challenging to respond with facts and substance accordingly.
No straightforward answers exist for political achievements in connection with the war in Ukraine and migration. Even achievements, like handling the energy crisis or the surge in renewable energies, are disputed or criticized. "Moreover, political science cannot offer a sound guide on how to establish fundamental trust in the state and democracy beyond political education," Muno added.
The path to the subsequent state elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is long, making predictions premature. "But it's becoming evident that it will be quite challenging for Manuela Schwesig and the state government," asserted Muno, alluding to the SPD Minister President.
Despite the upcoming state elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, concerns about democracy are persistent. Muno predicts that it will be challenging for the SPD, particularly Manuela Schwesig, in maintaining their position, given the recent trends in other Landtags.
