The federal AfD party conference in Riesa, Saxony, began more than two hours late. Due to numerous blockades of access routes by counter-demonstrators, the arrival of many of the approximately 600 delegates was delayed. The two-day meeting was due to begin at 10 a.m. and did not start until a few minutes after 12 noon. Party leader Tino Chrupalla described the journey as more than arduous.
A number of members of the federal executive committee said they had arrived early by bus under police escort without any problems. Other AfD representatives experienced long delays because they were stuck in traffic jams due to blockades. According to party circles, the car of party chairwoman Alice Weidel was also held up by demonstrators.
The highlight of the first day of the party conference is the planned nomination of Weidel as candidate for chancellor, followed by a speech. This will be followed by the AfD's election manifesto. A draft is available, but many points are still controversial and will be discussed and voted on.
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