- The FDP voices criticism towards the Federal Minister of Interior for imposing a ban on compact vehicles.
In the discussion about the suspension of the "Compact" magazine's ban, Andreas Silbersack, leader of the FDP factions in Saxony-Anhalt, spoke out against Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser (SPD). Silbersack claimed, "At the end of the day, it's like giving the AfD a reason to celebrate. And that's what's truly unacceptable about this situation," referring to a debate initiated by the AfD state parliament faction under the topic "Defending Freedom of Press and Media."
The Federal Administrative Court temporarily halted Faeser's implementation of the ban on "Compact" magazine, casting doubt upon the appropriateness of the restriction. This means the magazine can continue publishing, under specific conditions. The final verdict will be given in the principal proceedings. Faeser enforced the ban on July 16, labeling the publication as a "main medium for the far-right extremist circle."
Silbersack confirmed his disapproval of the magazine, but emphasized that the rule of law has specific regulations. Anyone who transgresses these boundaries will receive a stern response, as Silbersack put it.
AfD co-faction leader Oliver Kirchner criticized Faeser's actions as shooting herself in the foot. Additionally, the "Compact" magazine's publisher, Jürgen Elsässer, attended the AfD state party conference in Magdeburg over the weekend and highlighted the long-standing mutual friendship and brotherly relations between the magazine and the AfD state association.
SPD faction leader Katja Pähle expressed her interest in observing the court's ultimate decision. Getting legal protection in an expedited action does not guarantee success in the main proceedings, according to Pähle. CDU faction leader Guido Heuer stated that the AfD's application was simply populism. "We have freedom of the press in Germany, and we stand behind that," Heuer declared.
Despite Silbersack's reservations towards the "Compact" magazine, he underscored the importance of adhering to legal boundaries within the FDP. failure to comply with these regulations would result in severe consequences, as Silbersack emphasized.
Moreover, the Federal Democratic Party (FDP) in Saxony-Anhalt continues to advocate for upholding press freedoms, distinguishing itself from Faeser's stance on the "Compact" magazine ban.