A car attack at a Christmas market in eastern Germany has killed five people and raised concerns about security failures. The incident has sparked criticism from rival lawmakers ahead of snap elections set for February.
The police have detained a 50-year-old Saudi refugee, who is believed to be the attacker. However, questions are being asked about how authorities failed to prevent the deaths despite receiving alerts about the suspect’s erratic behavior.
The hard-right Alternative for Germany party has held a demonstration in Magdeburg, calling for stricter immigration policies and deportations. The event was also used for political purposes by the party’s candidate for chancellor, Alice Weidel.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people attended a counter-demonstration in Magdeburg, calling for peace and solidarity. Local civic organizations had organized the event to show opposition to the hard-right rhetoric.
Germany’s top security official, Nancy Faeser, has called on opposition parties to support bills aimed at strengthening the federal police and increasing observation of foreigners. However, critics say that the government has contributed to sowing mistrust against the police.
The incident has sparked a heated debate about immigration, security, and the role of social media in politics. With snap elections looming, politicians are struggling to position themselves on these issues.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/23/world/europe/germany-christmas-market-attack-politics.html