Demonstrations numbering around 3,300 people took place against a speech by Thuringian AfD leader Björn Höcke at a New Year’s reception held by the AfD faction in Dortmund, according to police reports. This turnout significantly exceeded the organizers’ expectations of 600 attendees.
Legal Challenges and Political Opposition
The city of Dortmund previously attempted to prevent Höcke’s appearance, but failed in an expedited proceeding before the Administrative Court of Gelsenkirchen. The city subsequently appealed to the Higher Administrative Court of Münster, which did not address the case over the weekend.
“For me, it was clear that I did not wish the man in my town hall,” Dortmund’s Mayor Alexander Kalouti (CDU) told the Ruhr Nachrichten. The city had exhausted all legal avenues to prevent the event.
Further Appearances and Protests
Höcke is scheduled to appear in Düsseldorf on Monday evening, where a demonstration organized by an anti-fascist alliance has been registered with police for 5,000 participants, with significantly more expected.
Höcke’s appearances are controversial, in part due to his two prior convictions for using banned Nazi slogans. The AfD state association he leads is classified as right-wing extremist by the Thuringian state office for the protection of the constitution.
The AfD city council group invited 280 guests to their New Year’s reception, where videos show Höcke being greeted with standing ovations and loud cheers.
Prior to his appearance in Dortmund, Höcke visited the Externsteine in the Teutoburg Forest, a site that held special significance in National Socialist propaganda and continues to be used as a destination by right-wing extremists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protests in Dortmund?
The protests in Dortmund were in response to a speech by Thuringian AfD leader Björn Höcke at a New Year’s reception hosted by the AfD faction in Dortmund.
Was the city of Dortmund successful in preventing Höcke’s speech?
The city of Dortmund was unsuccessful in preventing Höcke’s speech, losing an initial legal challenge and a subsequent appeal.
Where is Höcke scheduled to appear next?
Höcke is scheduled to appear in Düsseldorf on Monday evening, where a large demonstration is planned.
As Höcke continues his appearances, will the scale of public opposition remain consistent, and how will authorities manage potential confrontations?
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