AfD Fraktion Adopts New Seven-Point Plan, Omits Controversial Terms

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party convened in Berlin for a two-day retreat where it adopted a new seven-point plan outlining its political agenda for the upcoming months. During this meeting, the party reaffirmed its existing positions while also opting to moderate certain language, notably removing contentious terms from its lexicon.

According to the new document, the AfD emphasizes that Germany is currently facing a crisis, which it attributes to what it calls the 'desolate situation' created by the repeated missteps of established political parties. The plan identifies significant issues such as rising crime rates and economic challenges as key areas of concern.

Among the key proposals in the plan is a call for a complete halt to 'unjustified entries' into Germany, which includes asylum seekers. The party also aims to abolish citizenship rights for migrants and refugees. Furthermore, the AfD is advocating for the lifting of sanctions against Russia related to its military actions in Ukraine and is calling for a strengthening of the German armed forces, including the reintroduction of compulsory military service.

In terms of energy policy, the AfD plans to reverse the current energy transition initiatives, extend the operation of coal-fired power plants, and lower energy taxes. The party has also stated its intention to repair and reactivate the Nord Stream pipelines, while imposing a moratorium on the expansion of wind energy projects. Instead of the current citizens' income policy, the AfD is proposing a mandatory work requirement for citizens.

Significantly, several previously used terms such as 'remigration' and 'German Leitkultur' have been excluded from the new plan. Earlier drafts had suggested promoting 'remigration' to create housing availability for locals and included a phrase advocating for 'German Leitkultur instead of multiculturalism.' The revised document now emphasizes the need to 'relieve the housing market for residents' and 'limit immigration.'

In response to the AfD's recent decisions, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union criticized the party, accusing it of 'electoral fraud.' He claimed that the current government is merely continuing the policies of the recently ousted coalition government and that the AfD's rhetoric has shifted significantly from its original campaign themes.

AfD co-leader Alice Weidel echoed these sentiments, arguing that Merz's government has failed to deliver on promises, particularly regarding the anticipated reduction of electricity taxes for households and businesses. She specifically condemned the breach of promises concerning tax reductions and reiterated demands for immediate cuts to energy taxes.

Additionally, Tino Chrupalla, another co-leader of the AfD, called for zero tolerance towards violent crime and highlighted the need for further tightening of border security.

Moreover, during the retreat, the AfD is expected to establish a code of conduct aimed at regulating the behavior of its members within parliament. The proposed guidelines are intended to ensure a more unified and moderate approach by party members in parliamentary settings, thereby enhancing both their political effectiveness and credibility.

As discussions continue, the party is considering how to navigate its public image while maintaining its core principles.