Violence Erupts at AfD Youth Congress in Gießen Amidst Protests and Controversial Speeches

The founding congress of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) youth organization in Gießen witnessed significant violence and large-scale protests, drawing tens of thousands of demonstrators. AfD leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla strongly condemned the violence and blockades that marked the event. Weidel reported that Julian Schmidt, an AfD Bundestag member attending the congress, was assaulted by protesters. Police confirmed that an AfD member was injured and that a suspect was arrested during the unrest.

Chrupalla commented on the broader challenges facing the country in light of these disturbances. The Hesse Interior Ministry identified several hundred protesters as violent, with injuries occurring among both police officers and demonstrators. These tensions overshadowed the congress proceedings where AfD youth members gathered to establish their new organization.

One of the key moments during the event was a speech by Patrick Heinz from Langenfeld, North Rhine-Westphalia, who was running for the position of deputy federal chairman. Heinz recounted a violent incident involving a boy named Mohammed, who allegedly threatened another student with a butterfly knife and demanded submission, highlighting concerns about safety in schools. He described women as "prey" and schools as "battle arenas," remarks that resonated with the audience and concluded with strong applause and standing ovations.

The unrest, marked by confrontations between protesters and the police, reflects escalating tensions surrounding the AfD’s political activities. Despite the disorder, the congress moved forward with speeches and organizational efforts. The police presence and arrests indicate efforts to restore order amid the protests.

In summary, the AfD youth congress in Gießen was a flashpoint of political conflict, underscored by violence, provocative rhetoric, and large-scale opposition from demonstrators, highlighting the polarizing nature of the party's expanding youth wing within Germany's political landscape.