American tech billionaire Elon Musk made an unexpected appearance on Saturday at the campaign launch for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Musk addressed the supporters via live video chat. Speaking to a crowd of over tens of thousands of supporters, Musk’s remarks were met with huge enthusiastic cheer from the audience. His involvement comes amid nationwide protests against the rising influence of the controversial AfD group.
Addressing a crowd of approximately 4,500 AfD supporters via live video in Halle, Elon Musk voiced strong backing for the party ahead of Germany’s snap elections on February 23, describing it as the country’s “best hope.”
Appearing alongside AfD leader Alice Weidel, the party’s Chancellor candidate, Musk echoed nationalist themes, urging Germans to take pride in their country and heritage, a sentiment that drew thunderous applause. He also weighed in on immigration, a key election issue, cautioning against “multiculturalism that dilutes everything” and advocating for the protection of national identity. His remarks reinforced the party’s controversial stance on preserving cultural homogeneity.
Why is AfD controversial?
The AfD, is gaining a lot of attention as the first far-right party to win a state election since the Nazi era, and has gained momentum in national polls. However, its heavy anti-immigrant policies have alienated mainstream parties, all of which have ruled out any collaboration with the AfD, a CNN report said.
Protestors in Berlin gathered at the Brandenburg Gate, singing anti-fascist songs and holding banners denouncing the party. These protests were held in various cities, including Cologne, where tens of thousands marched in opposition of the AfD. Climate activist Luisa Neubauer spoke to the crowds, emphasising the risks posed by the AfD’s rhetoric and policies. She warned that the party’s stance could harm both social unity and environmental progress, urging the public to be mindful of the potential consequences.
Musk’s backing for AfD draws criticism
Elon Musk’s endorsement of the AfD has triggered significant backlash, with government officials raising concerns about its potential impact. Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), accused Musk of interfering in Germany’s elections, drawing comparisons to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Klingbeil argued that both figures are seeking to undermine democracy and weaken Germany. Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), condemned Musk’s remarks as an unprecedented interference in the matters of a close ally, further intensifying the criticism surrounding the tech billionaire’s involvement in the election.
(With Agency Inputs)