AfD state convention in Bavaria met with large counter-demonstrations

The Bavarian branch of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is convening for its two-day state party congress in Passau, facing significant opposition. Thousands of demonstrators gathered on Saturday morning, with police estimating around 1,000 opponents present hours before the event began. A total of 5,000 participants are registered for various demonstrations and rallies planned throughout the day.

Police have deployed several hundred officers to ensure security for attendees and residents. A no-fly zone, including for drones, has been established around the venue, the Dreiländerhalle. Minor disturbances, such as the ignition of a smoke bomb and an attempted road blockade, were reported early Saturday. Some demonstrators reportedly deviated from approved routes.

The central agenda item for the congress is the election of the entire state board. This includes a contested election for the chairmanship, where current state chairman Stephan Protschka, also a member of the Bundestag, faces a challenge from fellow Bundestag member Reinhard Mixl. Both candidates have assembled teams comprising members of the Bundestag and state parliament.

While Protschka and Mixl have publicly called for unity, an intense power struggle is unfolding behind the scenes. Reports indicate that Protschka's team sent a letter to the federal board alleging a "deliberate attempt by external networks to hijack the free decision-making of our strongest state association." Protschka has also claimed to be facing pressure and threats.

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the deliberate attempt by external networks to hijack the free decision-making of our strongest state association.