Left-wing BSW poised to tip Saxony-Anhalt balance, potentially empowering far-right AfD
The BSW party entered Saxony-Anhalt's parliament and announced it will talk to every bloc, including the AfD, which won the most seats but lacks a majority.
Alternative for Germany emerged as the largest force in Saxony-Anhalt, winning 39 seats but missing a governing majority. The small leftist group BSW surpassed the 5% threshold and signalled readiness to act as kingmaker, stating it will discuss coalition options with any party, including the AfD. BSW leader Thomas Schulze called the mainstream parties' exclusion of the AfD undemocratic, echoing the party's broader hostility to the political establishment.
Both the AfD and BSW oppose mass migration, question mainstream media, and seek to end German support for Ukraine while restoring relations with Russia. Founder Sahra Wagenknecht highlighted aims to shift energy policy, lift sanctions on Russia, improve education and reform public broadcasting. The BSW, formed in 2024 after splitting from Die Linke, previously joined a coalition with CDU and SPD in Thuringia, though internal disputes have since arisen.
Why it matters
The alliance could give Germany's far-right AfD influence in a state government for the first time.
How this story developed
- Sep 7 AfD wins Saxony-Anhalt election, BSW holds potential sway over premier selection
- Sep 7 The AfD was reported to be three seats short of an outright majority, prompting coalition negotiations.
- Sep 7 AfD received 43.8% of the vote and the CDU dropped to about 17%.
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