Germany's Merz accuses far-right AfD of promoting 'ethnic cleansing'

The AfD’s victory in the Saxony‑Anhalt state election delivered Germany its first far‑right government, placing the party in control of a regional cabinet for the first time. The win gives the AfD a platform to shape policy, while opposition parties and minority communities face the prospect of a new legislative agenda. The CDU leader Friedrich Merz responded by accusing the AfD of promoting “ethnic cleansing.” Analysts note the party is treating the regional authority as a policy laboratory, a point highlighted by the Wall Street Journal.

The Financial Times observes that left‑wing parties hold the balance of power needed to sustain the AfD‑led premiership, indicating a fragile coalition. The New York Times draws a parallel between the AfD’s messaging and that of President Putin, suggesting a deliberate alignment with broader authoritarian narratives. The Nation describes the Saxony‑Anhalt outcome as a stark warning for the rest of Germany.

Merz’s public charge frames the AfD’s governance as a threat to social cohesion, intensifying debate over Germany’s democratic resilience. The accusations have prompted calls for scrutiny of the new state policies, while the AfD defends its agenda as a legitimate electoral mandate. Observers will watch whether the left‑wing parties can leverage their position to moderate the government’s direction or if the AfD consolidates further influence.