The brutal attack on Dresden SPD European politician Matthias Ecke has sparked nationwide outrage and triggered a debate on the escalation of violence in election campaigns. Thousands of people in Dresden and Berlin demonstrated for democracy and against violence. A 17-year-old turned himself in to the police after the attack in Dresden. Three other suspects have been identified, with investigations ongoing. The motives behind the attacks on Ecke and a Green party campaign helper remain unclear. The police have not yet received any information on the motive from the suspect. In response, over 200 federal politicians condemned the increasing violence against democratic politicians in a joint statement, known as the “Striesen Declaration.”
Leaders from various political parties, including SPD and Greens, emphasized the need for increased protection of politicians and campaign workers during election campaigns. Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser called for more visible police presence to protect democrats at campaign stands and events. Ecke, the Saxon SPD lead candidate for the European elections, suffered severe injuries and underwent surgery. The attack on him and a Green party campaign helper are part of a string of incidents targeting political figures ahead of the upcoming elections on June 9th.
Various political figures and parties condemned the violence and called for a united front against aggression in political discourse. The attacks have predominantly targeted Green party members, with the party urging for enhanced protection during election campaigns. Politicians across the spectrum highlighted the threat to democracy posed by such incidents and stressed the importance of solidarity in the face of violence. Calls for stronger law enforcement and stricter penalties for offenders were also made.
The series of attacks on politicians and campaign workers reflect a disturbing trend of aggression in the lead-up to the elections. Politicians from different parties, including the AfD, have been targeted in violent incidents, raising concerns about the deteriorating political climate in the country. Politicians emphasized the need for all parties to engage in respectful and non-violent election campaigns, regardless of their political affiliations. State and city officials called for concrete actions and tougher measures to address the rising violence and ensure the safety of political figures and their families.
The recent wave of violence against politicians has led to widespread condemnation and calls for action from political leaders at both federal and state levels. The attacks have highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections for politicians and campaign workers during election campaigns. In light of the escalating violence, there is a growing consensus among politicians and officials on the importance of standing together against aggression and promoting a culture of respect and civility in political discourse.
