Failed Twice in Meissen and Wolmirstedt: AFD Elections
In the recent mayoral election in the historic town of Meißen, Saxony, a broad democratic majority stood against the AfD candidate, René Jurisch. The election, considered a significant event in Saxony's political landscape, saw the incumbent independent finance mayor, Markus Renner, emerge victorious with 58.5% of the vote.
Jurisch, a former NPD member and AfD candidate, received 30.43% of the votes. His candidacy, however, was met with criticism from left-wing groups who refuted his claim that his NPD membership was merely a "youthful indiscretion." A flyer circulating during the campaign showed Jurisch's continued proximity to far-right positions, further fuelling concerns.
The AfD invested significant resources in the campaign in Meißen, dubbed the "cradle of Saxony," with support from right-wing influencers and the magazine "Compact." Yet, a broad coalition of the democratic city society, including city councilors from CDU, SPD, The Left, the Independent List Meißen, and Citizens for Meißen, collectively supported Renner for mayor. This coalition likely played a crucial role in Renner's victory.
Elsewhere in Saxony, an independent candidate, Mike Steffens, won the mayor election in Wolmirstedt with 54.3% of the vote. The SPD candidate, Steffen Steinhagen, received just under 10% of the vote in Wolmirstedt. These results indicate a broad support for counter-candidates in the mayor elections in Saxon towns.
The Free State of Saxony has been promoting democracy, especially in rural areas, since 2000 with its own program, "Open-minded Saxony." This program has been instrumental in fostering civil society in the region.
In Meißen, Hendrik Lasch, a previous NPD member, is running for the AfD in the mayoral election. His candidacy has received significant attention, with the AfD seeing good chances with Lasch in the election. However, the FDP politician, Martin Bahrmann, received around 11% of the vote in Meißen.
The election in Meißen serves as a reminder of the importance of unity among democratic forces in the face of far-right challenges. It underscores the resilience of democratic values in Saxony and the determination of its citizens to uphold these values.
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