Klaus Ernst threatens to leave BSW over its ties with the AfD

Klaus Ernst, a member of the BSW’s federal board and until recently one of its two leaders in Bavaria, says he may leave the party.

He wants the BSW to clearly distance itself from the AfD, a right-wing party.

Ernst says the BSW’s direction is shifting to the right and conflicts with the principles on which it was founded.

His warning follows the BSW’s support for AfD politician Tobias Rausch to become president of the state parliament in Saxony-Anhalt.

BSW politicians also attended a celebration hosted by the right-wing magazine Compact in Magdeburg, where AfD politicians were present.

Ernst says the BSW should not help the AfD take office or gain responsibility when that can be avoided.

He says his continued membership depends on the party clarifying its stance.