AfD replaces youth group to strengthen control and address past issues

The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has voted to replace its youth group, the "Young Alternative," with a new organization under tighter party control. This change follows concerns from party leaders about the youth group's past activities. The new organization will require members to be part of the AfD, except for those under 16. The AfD aims to prevent misconduct and better protect the youth group from potential bans, as the domestic intelligence service has classified the previous group as extremist. In related news, AfD co-leader Alice Weidel has been nominated as the party's chancellor candidate ahead of the February 23 election. The AfD currently ranks second in opinion polls, but cooperation with far-right parties remains controversial in Germany.