Germany's Economy Minister Condemns AfD as Detrimental Business Influence

24 Jan, 2024

Germany's Economy Minister Condemns AfD as Detrimental Business Influence

Germany's Economy Minister, Robert Habeck, expressed grave concerns about the surging influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), labeling them as detrimental to the country's economic stability. In an interview with Welt TV, Habeck criticized the AfD's extreme proposals, particularly their plans for mass deportations based on a narrow definition of German identity. He emphasized the potential disastrous consequences for businesses, including restaurants, tradespeople, and haulage companies, painting a grim picture of economic decline if such policies were implemented.

Habeck, a Green Party member and vice chancellor, made these remarks in the aftermath of a right-wing extremist meeting in Potsdam. Reports revealed discussions on forcibly expelling a significant number of people, including German citizens, leading to widespread protests across Germany. Habeck acknowledged the coalition government's role in the AfD's rise but strongly condemned their ideology.

Recent polls indicate the AfD's sustained popularity, with slight fluctuations, and Habeck criticized AfD co-chair Alice Weidel's support for a "Dexit" referendum, referencing the UK's Brexit as a model for Germany. Habeck dismissed the idea as politically foolish, emphasizing the importance of EU membership and the single market.The political landscape, as reflected in polls, shows the conservative CDU/CSU bloc leading, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD experiences a decline. The Green Party and the liberal Free Democrats maintain their positions, while Die Linke faces a decrease. Notably, support for various other parties has risen, possibly influenced by the emergence of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance.

These observations are derived from two recent polls, one conducted by Bild and the other by RTL/ntv, providing insights into the evolving political dynamics in Germany.