FDP leader Wolfgang Kubicki cautions against unlawful attempts to disrupt the AfD party congress in Erfurt.

FDP leader Wolfgang Kubicki has issued a stark warning against efforts to block the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party congress in Erfurt, labeling such actions as illegal. While Kubicki acknowledged the right to protest under Germany’s constitution, he emphasized that deliberate attempts to prevent the event entirely cross a legal boundary. Speaking to WELT TV, he stated, “Blockades aimed at completely obstructing a gathering are unlawful and constitute coercion under criminal law.”

Kubicki urged institutions, including churches, unions, and political parties, to refrain from encouraging such actions. He stressed that the rule of law applies equally to all parties, including the AfD, as long as it remains legally recognized. “We cannot deny the constitutional rights of this party unless it is officially banned,” he said, adding that those claiming a higher moral legitimacy are mistaken. “In a state governed by the rule of law, there is no legitimacy beyond legality.”

The FDP leader also criticized the approach of democratic parties toward the AfD, arguing that labeling the party as far-right or unconstitutional without addressing its policies has been counterproductive. “I believe we need to demystify them,” Kubicki said, suggesting that the AfD should be challenged on substantive issues such as foreign policy, European integration, and economic strategies. “Debating their positions can expose their flaws, rather than simply demonizing them, which only fuels their victim narrative,” he added.

Kubicki attributed the AfD’s rising poll numbers to widespread public dissatisfaction with mainstream politics. He noted that many citizens expressing support for the AfD are not ideologically aligned with the party but are frustrated with the perceived inability of established parties to address their concerns. “Trust in the problem-solving capabilities of traditional parties has suffered significantly,” Kubicki remarked.

Addressing historical comparisons surrounding the Erfurt congress, Kubicki dismissed them as irrelevant. “It doesn’t matter whether the NSDAP was founded 100 years ago. The pressing question is whether the AfD is allowed to hold its congress now,” he said. The answer, according to Kubicki, is clear: as long as the party is not banned, it retains its constitutional rights.

Kubicki reiterated his firm stance against any collaboration between the FDP and the AfD. “The Free Democrats have no political common ground with the AfD,” he stated unequivocally. “Under my leadership, there will be no coalition or tolerance agreements with them. I categorically rule this out.”