The AfD party congress in Erfurt began on time despite massive protests and road blockades disrupting the city.

The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party congress commenced punctually at 10 a.m. in Erfurt, undeterred by widespread protests and blockades. Approximately 600 delegates arrived early to avoid disruptions, with 540 already present at the venue by 5 a.m., according to a party spokesperson. The event, held at the Erfurt exhibition center, aims to elect a new party leadership.

Meanwhile, the city of Erfurt witnessed significant unrest as an estimated 20,000 demonstrators gathered to protest the congress. Police reported large-scale marches, with two separate groups of around 6,000 participants each moving toward the city center and the venue. Smaller groups staged sit-ins and blockades at key locations, including Gothaer Platz and Clara-Zetkin-Straße, where incidents of pyrotechnics and paint attacks on police and an AfD office were reported.

Traffic disruptions were severe, with Autobahn 71 completely closed between Erfurter Kreuz and Gispersleben due to blockades. Several access roads to the city were also obstructed, causing partial shutdowns of public transportation. Demonstrators were seen on field paths surrounding the venue, further complicating access. Authorities estimate up to 50,000 counter-demonstrators, including hundreds deemed potentially violent, are involved.

The police deployed thousands of officers from across Germany to manage the situation. A general ban on demonstrations along access routes to the congress remains in effect, upheld by the Thuringian State Administration Office despite legal challenges. The Weimar Administrative Court had overturned parts of the ban, but the city of Erfurt appealed the decision, leaving the restrictions in place for now. The contested ban covers key roads like Gothaer and Eisenacher Streets and certain highway sections.

The legal dispute centers on whether peaceful protests should also be prohibited under the general ban. The Weimar court criticized the blanket nature of the restrictions, but the Oberverwaltungsgericht is yet to rule on the appeal. The timing of the decision remains uncertain, adding to the tension surrounding the event.

The AfD congress proceeds under tight security, with police prioritizing delegate access amid threats of further disruptions. The situation underscores the deep divisions and escalating tensions surrounding the party’s activities in Germany.