Scholz declares swift enforcement of stricter firearm regulations in Solingen.
Scholz showed disbelief towards the violent incident, allegedly carried out by a Syrian man who managed to avoid deportation. "We need to take every step possible to prevent such tragedies from happening in our nation," stated Scholz. This also sets a challenge for politics: "Any action we can take, within our abilities and capabilities, must be taken."
The federal administration will present a plan to strengthen firearm regulations. Once presented, "this can then be swiftly endorsed and ratified by the legislator in the Bundestag and Bundesrat," mentioned the Chancellor.
Previously, the FDP within the traffic light coalition had expressed skepticism towards the intended knife ban expansion proposed by the Federal Minister of the Interior, Nancy Faeser (SPD). Post-Solingen incident, however, the Federal Minister of Justice, Marco Buschmann (FDP), announced discussions on the matter.
Regarding the deportation of turned-down asylum seekers, Scholz asserted, "We shall take every measure necessary to ensure that those who have no right to stay in Germany and should not be here are also removed and deported." The government will examine if necessary, through legal adjustments, "to further amplify" the number of deportations.
Scholz spoke out following a discussion with first responders in Solingen, who attended to the victims of the incident on Friday night. He described the encounter as "emotional" - and further commented, "I am outraged, infuriated by this act, it must be swiftly and harshly punished." His anger is specifically targeted "at the extremist Muslims who threaten the harmony of all, who endanger the coexistence of Christians, Jews and Muslims," said the Chancellor.
Scholz urged society to stay united. "We will not allow this unity to be dismantled by wicked criminals who seek the most malicious intentions, but we will pursue them with unyielding ferocity and not cease our pursuit," he said. "This is what needs to be done now."
In response to the escalating tensions, Scholz suggested, "We need to engage in dialogue with the other communities to foster understanding and promote harmony." Recognizing the complexity of the situation, he added, "It's crucial that we address the concerns of all parties, including those who feel marginalized or misunderstood, to promote a more united and inclusive society."
