The result achieved by the AfD in the Saxony-Anhalt state parliament election was described by CDU leader Friedrich Merz as the heaviest election defeat his party had suffered in years, even decades. Merz made the remarks at a joint press conference in Berlin with Saxony-Anhalt Minister-President Sven Schulze after a meeting of the Federal Executive Board.
According to provisional official results, the AfD finished decisively in first place with 43.8 percent of the vote, but failed to win the majority required to govern alone. The party more than doubled its 20.8 percent share from the 2021 election, achieving its strongest result ever in a state parliament election.
The CDU came second with 17.2 percent, losing 19.9 percentage points compared with the 2021 election. The SPD, which increased its share by 0.9 percentage points from the previous election, finished third with 9.3 percent.
Merz stresses democracy and the constitution
Merz said the election result had to be accepted within the framework of democratic rules. At the same time, he said Germany could not continue with its daily affairs as if nothing had happened.
Describing people’s ability to change their political views as one of the fundamental elements of democracy, Merz said the rules governing coexistence and the values guaranteed by the constitution could not be put to a vote. Stressing that Germany carries a special responsibility arising from its history, Merz said the country would continue to protect its political and constitutional order.
CDU leader calls for reforms
Merz said the election results showed that Germany needed far-reaching reforms. He said the government had to explain its decisions and the reasons behind them to the public more clearly.
Merz said he was aware of his personal responsibility to his country and determined to fulfill it. Asked whether he was taking his personal results into account, he replied: “Giving up is not an option for me.”
