Protests erupt as far-right party convenes in Germany ahead of elections
A convention of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Riesa has sparked protests as parties prepare for the upcoming election on February 23. AfD is nominating co-leader Alice Weidel as its chancellor candidate. Thousands of demonstrators gathered, leading to a heavy police presence. Some protests turned confrontational, with officers breaking up blockades and fireworks thrown at police. Current polls show AfD in second place with about 20% support, while the conservative Union bloc leads with around 30%. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats are trailing at 14-17% after a coalition collapse in November.