Turkish group appeals to voters in Thuringia and Saxony

Ahead of the state elections in Thuringia and Saxony on Sunday, 1 September 2024, the Turkish Association in Berlin-Brandenburg (Türkische Bund in Berlin-Brandenburg or TBB) has issued an appeal to voters, urging them to “vote democratically.”

“We are deeply concerned by the latest forecasts for the upcoming state elections in Thuringia and Saxony,” said Ayşe Demir, spokesperson for the TBB board.

Opinion polls suggest that the upcoming elections could see a strong performance by the AfD. In some polls, it is well ahead of the other parties and could become the strongest force, complicating coalition possibilities. The AfD’s growing influence is therefore shaping political discourse.

“The continuous shift to the right has become evident across all areas of social life, causing increasing fear and frustration among those affected by discrimination and racism,” Ms Demir explained. “Inhuman attitudes are being displayed more openly and without consequence.”

She added, “The participation of right-wing populists and extremists in government would not only amplify verbal marginalisation and discrimination but also pose a serious threat to the physical safety of people who do not conform to a perceived German norm or ‘don’t look German enough.”

The TBB is therefore calling on voters in Thuringia and Saxony to take action: “Even if you are dissatisfied with the current policies of democratic parties, please go to the polls and vote democratically. This is about the peaceful coexistence of all people and the preservation of our democracy. All democrats must firmly oppose right-wing extremism and populism in the upcoming elections.”

Femi Awoniyi