Saxony’s police have called in reinforcements from across Germany to ensure security during the AfD’s federal party convention in Riesa, scheduled for January 10–12, 2025. The Dresden Police Directorate announced on Friday that they are gearing up for a major operation.
“We’re putting significant effort into securing the event,” explained police chief Lutz Rodig. He pointed to Germany’s Basic Law, which grants special protection to non-banned political parties under the principle of party privilege. “The law obliges the police to act neutrally and safeguard all party events, regardless of their political orientation.”
Authorities anticipate up to 10,000 anti-AfD demonstrators, traveling from across the country. While emphasizing their expectation of peaceful protests, Rodig noted, “Meeting participants are protected by the right of assembly, and so are the delegates. Balancing these fundamental rights and ensuring proportionality in police measures will be crucial.”
The backdrop to the heightened security is the mobilization of various left-wing and radical groups against the AfD congress. The leftist alliance “Resist,” including the organization VVN-BdA, has called for actions to block the event. Their efforts are backed by several Antifa groups, the Education and Science Union (GEW), and the Green Youth, all aiming to disrupt or delay the convention.
Tensions are high, following violent protests at the AfD’s last congress in Essen. Those demonstrations resulted in significant clashes, with 28 police officers injured, some seriously, and 143 criminal charges filed. Incidents included violations of the Assembly Act, breaches of peace, resistance, and assaults on law enforcement.
The upcoming convention in Riesa is shaping up to be a flashpoint, as police prepare for potential confrontations while navigating the complex balance between protecting democratic rights and maintaining public order.
