Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called on political parties to take a strong stance against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). In an interview with broadcaster Phoenix, she said: “We must not sit like a rabbit before a snake and allow the AfD to dominate the political stage.” Merkel stressed that cooperation with parties rejecting the EU, maintaining special ties with Russia, or failing to defend liberal democracy is out of the question. She urged the CDU and SPD to present their policies more clearly so citizens can recognize the differences with the AfD. She also criticized the CDU/CSU parliamentary group for voting earlier this year on a migration-related bill with AfD support, calling it an “exceptional case” and warning against any majority formed with the far-right party.
Sources - Agencies
