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GERMANY’S Greens and Social Democrats (SPD) have rejected talks with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) on forming a government in Saxony-Anhalt.
The AfD won a record 43.8 per cent in Sunday’s regional election, narrowly missing an absolute majority, while Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democrats (CDU) secured 17.2 per cent.
The election result could lead to prolonged negotiations, as mainstream parties have ruled out cooperation with the AfD under the so-called “firewall” policy.
The AfD had previously said it would govern only if it secured an absolute majority but has since softened its position.
AfD Secretary-General Tobias Rausch said the party would invite all other parliamentary factions for talks on forming a government.
The AfD could potentially form a minority government with tacit support from the populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW).
Greens’ top candidate Susan Sziborra-Seidlitz rejected the proposal, describing it as “absurd” to hold talks with the right-wing extremist party.
The SPD also rejected the invitation, with a party spokesman saying it would not accept the request received by email.
The AfD’s Saxony-Anhalt chapter has been classified by domestic intelligence authorities as a confirmed far-right extremist organisation. (dpa/NAN)
A.I
Sept. 9, 2026
Tags: Friedrich Merz Saxony-Anhalt Tobias Rausch