Germany's far-right AfD bids for first taste of power in eastern vote
The far-right AfD party is polling strongly in Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state election, potentially securing its first regional parliamentary majority. This development poses a significant challenge to the political establishment and Chancellor Friedrich Merz, reflecting voter dissatisfaction with immigration and the economy.
Why it matters
A victory for the AfD would mark a historic shift in German post-war politics, signaling a rise in far-right influence within the European Union's largest economy.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The AfD's Ulrich Siegmund is leading the polls in Sunday's Saxony-Anhalt state election
Germany is holding its breath this weekend as there is a seismic election in the country's east.
The Alternative für Deutschland party is aiming to secure a majority in the regional parliament of Saxony-Anhalt.
An outright win would mark the first time a far-right party has held state-level power in the nation's post-war era.
For the AfD's opponents, this is a point of serious peril. But the party sees it as a stepping stone towards its dreams of nationwide power.
This is an election that could change German history.
The result could also spell fresh trouble for embattled conservative (CDU) Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as rumours persist about whether he can see out his term in office.
Booed during recent public appearances, Merz is hardly seen as an electoral asset.
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