Berlin – A crisis unfolded Monday within the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party following a series of internal accusations. Top party officials convened late into the night at the AfD headquarters on the northern outskirts of the capital to address allegations of internal conflicts, particularly within the state branches of Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. Notably absent from the meeting was party co-chairwoman Alice Weidel, who, according to reports, had “other appointments,” leaving her co-chair Tino Chrupalla to lead the discussions.
The AfD leadership agreed to send a review team to investigate the claims originating from Lower Saxony, where the most serious internal accusations have surfaced. The party too intends to address the allegations from Saxony-Anhalt, though the timing and method remain unclear.
Tensions within the AfD are high. This was evident during an initial crisis meeting Monday with the party’s parliamentary group executive board, where leaders acknowledged the risk of the issues escalating into a broader conflict and potential power struggle.
According to reports, Weidel urged her deputy, Stefan Keuter, to resign from the parliamentary group executive board, alleging he improperly employed his girlfriend using taxpayer funds. Keuter reportedly refused to step down, and was given until next Monday to consider the consequences.
AfD-Fraktionsvize Stefan Keuter
The parliamentary group also intends to initiate proceedings to expel Jan Wenzel Schmidt from the parliamentary group.
Anja Arndt, a European Parliament member, presented the party leadership with accusations against Ansgar Schledde, the head of the Lower Saxony branch, alleging a “post-kartell” and misuse of funds. Schledde reportedly requested that 35 percent of the parliamentary group’s staff budget be diverted to the state branch, allegedly for party rather than parliamentary work. Schledde denied the accusations.
Following the meeting, Arndt stated that the federal executive board takes the accusations seriously and expressed confidence that the board will make appropriate decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the AfD’s crisis meeting?
The meeting was prompted by accusations of financial impropriety and internal conflicts within the party, particularly in the state branches of Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt.
What action is being taken regarding Stefan Keuter?
Alice Weidel reportedly requested Stefan Keuter’s resignation from the parliamentary group executive board, alleging improper use of taxpayer funds. He has been given until next Monday to consider the consequences.
What is the status of Jan Wenzel Schmidt?
The AfD parliamentary group intends to initiate proceedings to expel Jan Wenzel Schmidt from the group.
As the AfD grapples with these internal challenges, what impact will these accusations have on the party’s future direction and public standing?
