The German Chancellor Friedrich Merz accused the far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) of practicing "ethnic cleansing," during a confrontation with the party leader, Alice Weidel, in the German Parliament. The confrontation occurred two days after the AfD achieved a significant electoral victory in Saxony-Anhalt.
The far-right party won almost 44% of the votes in the regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt, consolidating its position as the dominant force in that German state. The result represented a historic milestone for the AfD and generated strong reaction in the national political scene.
Merz used the term "ethnic cleansing" to describe the AfD's policies and positions, at a time of growing political tension in Germany. The Chancellor confronted Weidel directly during the parliamentary session, making the moment particularly tense.
The episode marks one of the most direct confrontations between Merz's government and the far-right leadership since the AfD's electoral victory. The situation reflects the growing political divisions in Germany and the increasing polarization in the country.
