Thousands protest against AfD party conference in Saxony
dw.com —
Thousands of protesters gathered in Riesa, Saxony, ahead of a two-day conference for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Organizers anticipated over 10,000 attendees from 70 cities, arriving by more than 100 buses. The protests coincide with the AfD's campaign for the February 23 Bundestag election, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition government. Polls indicate the AfD could become the second-largest party in parliament. State police reported a calm situation, although a small group blocked part of a highway. Authorities deployed helicopters and drones for monitoring as protesters planned to block entrances to the conference venue.