Saxony-Anhalt revokes gun licences of AfD members in unprecedented move
Authorities in Saxony-Anhalt have begun withdrawing firearms permits and hunting licences from members of the AfD, with 17 cases already acted upon.
In Saxony-Anhalt, officials are implementing a court-ordered program to strip firearms and hunting permits from members of the AfD, a party classified as right-wing extremist in the state. The Higher Administrative Court in Magdeburg authorised the action, and 17 hunters have already had their licences revoked, with 122 more cases under review. Judges argue that public safety can be safeguarded by acting before any criminal incident occurs.
Interior Minister Tamara Zieschangová welcomed the decision, citing the danger posed by extremists possessing weapons. One affected individual, 48-year-old Marcel Pries, a roofer and local council member, was forced to surrender his firearms and hunting licence, which he disputes. The AfD plans to challenge the procedure with a constitutional complaint.
Why it matters
The case sets a rare precedent for revoking gun rights based solely on party affiliation, raising questions about civil liberties and security.
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