Politicians of all Stripes condemn the attack on the Bremen AfD-Chairman Frank Magnitz. SPD Vice Ralf Stegner responded in the DW-Interview to accusations from right-wing groups that he had called for violence.
DW: Mr Stegner, what do you say to the attack on the Bremen AfD-Chairman Frank Magnitz?
I’m generally of the opinion that violence in Germany has to be outlawed, regardless of who they run out, no matter against whom it is directed and no matter how it is justified. In this respect, there is no more than to say this sentence. The always refers to any Form of violence: violence is wrong.
Now, you are one of those who are in the social media particularly active in the fight against the AfD, in the fight with words. From the right side, you will be accused of now, that they would contribute to a climate of violence against the AfD. What do you say to this allegation?
Unlike other people, I dissociate myself in any way of violence, and to make such statements, Fakes are to be paid just by those who contribute very strongly that our society is violent. Those columns, the rush against minorities and other things to do. That’s why I’m sticking to it: just against the rights of democracy, the enemies must be tackled with all the peaceful and political means. And I do also. I’m not going to be intimidated. But again: I have been using violence at all, nothing in common. I do not approve of you, it does not justify, condemn you, no matter against whom it is directed. Those who raise such allegations should ask themselves how they contribute to violence in society.
Almost three years ago, you tweeted that you “had to attack positions and personnel of the right-wing populists”. She’s angry that this is understood by some as a call to violence?
No, not annoys me, because I say Yes, it is only since today that I want to see violence in any Form is outlawed. I’ve always said that. I have not yet taken a Position, even at the time. And you can’t protect against misrepresentation, and against false allegation. On the contrary, in the case of Rights, it is part of their understanding of politics, to work with statements and not to discredit people with false claims because of the arguments. This is often also a question of intellectual Overwork, arguments to apply. This is one of the things that you don’t find beautiful, but are also to be avoided, I’m afraid.
The AfD group Chairman Alice rye speaks in connection with the attack on Frank Magnitz of a brutalization within the parties.
The Verrohungs specialists are at the party, called Alternative for Germany, and, in fact, a disgrace for Germany.
Ralf Stegner, Deputy SPD Chairman, and the Chairman of the group and national Chairman of the social Democrats in Schleswig-Holstein