Massive Protests Expected at AfD Party Congress in Riesa

Over 10,000 demonstrators are set to gather in the Saxon town to oppose the far-right party's meeting, with police preparing for potential unrest.

The AfD is holding its federal party congress in Riesa, where it plans to finalize its Bundestag election program and nominate Alice Weidel as its chancellor candidate.
The protest coalition 'Widersetzen' has organized nationwide efforts to disrupt the congress, with plans for blockades, demonstrations, and acts of civil disobedience starting early Saturday morning.
Police anticipate over 10,000 protesters, including groups traveling in more than 200 buses, and have established a controlled zone around the venue to ensure security and monitor activity.
Authorities have warned AfD members to avoid displaying party symbols in public and to use private shuttles for safety, citing concerns about potential violence based on prior events.
Riesa's mayor emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles on both sides, while local and national organizations rally to counter the AfD's growing influence in the region.