Erfurt braces for AfD conference as blockade alliance vows mass civil disobedience
Tens of thousands of demonstrators are expected in Erfurt this weekend as the far-right AfD holds its federal party conference, with one alliance vowing to block access roads with mass sit-ins starting at 5:30 a.m. Saturday.
Blockade plans
The alliance "Widersetzen" announced it will block all access roads to the Erfurt trade fair grounds starting at 5:30 a.m. on Saturday, using tens of thousands of participants. Spokesperson Suraj Mailitafi said:
The group blames federal government policies for the AfD's rise. Spokesperson Noa Sander stated:We will resolutely oppose fascism with tens of thousands, with our bodies.
She cited social cuts and Chancellor Merz's migration policy. When asked how the blockades would remain non-violent given police warnings, the activists evaded the question, saying the AfD was planning violence at its conference.Fascism is not an accident in an otherwise functioning system.
Police and security
Thuringia police, reinforced by officers from across Germany, have been preparing for months. Thousands of officers are deployed around the conference venue and city center. Police said they will protect peaceful assemblies but will not tolerate blockades or disproportionate restrictions on others' rights. They will report transparently on social media throughout the weekend. Authorities expect around 50,000 demonstrators, including an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 potentially violent left-wing extremists, according to the German Police Union.
Political reactions
Thuringia's Interior Minister Georg Maier (SPD) appealed to protesters not to attempt to prevent the conference.
He called for a "peaceful, colorful protest that shows Thuringia's and Erfurt's openness to the world." AfD co-leader Tino Chrupalla urged authorities to prevent blockades, expressing hope that the weekend would remain peaceful.It harms credibility if you violate the constitution yourself while protesting against a party you consider unconstitutional.
Traffic and logistics
The city of Erfurt activated extensive road closures on Friday afternoon, affecting major arteries until Monday morning. Public transport is disrupted: tram line 2 is diverted, bus line 80 is cancelled, and several stops on bus line 61 are not served. The Domplatz area is closed for concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings.
- Road closures and police deployment begin in Erfurt
- Widersetzen blockade of access roads begins
- AfD federal party conference opens
- Domplatz concert area closed for security
- Traffic restrictions lifted
Commentary
A commentary in Handelsblatt argues that blocking the AfD only strengthens the party, feeding its narrative of being silenced by an establishment cartel. It notes that no functionary will leave the party and no voter will change their mind because of a blockade.
