Germany's AfD Nominates Alice Weidel as Chancellor Candidate Ahead of February Election Amid Calls for Party Ban

Dec 7, 2024, 05:27 AM

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has nominated Alice Weidel, its leader, as its first chancellor candidate ahead of February's snap election. The party, currently polling at 17%, is positioned as the second-largest political force behind the CDU/CSU, which leads with 33%. This move is seen as a bold step to expand the party's influence and potentially reshape its image under Weidel's leadership. Meanwhile, calls for banning the AfD are intensifying, with over 100 German MPs, including members of the CDU, supporting a motion to outlaw the party. The motion, citing concerns over the party's radicalization and alleged threats to democracy, is expected to be voted on in January. The AfD's youth organization, Junge Alternative, also faces potential dissolution as part of these efforts.