AfD candidate’s arms-for-remigration remark sparks backlash

In Saxony-Anhalt, AfD lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund linked the planned Elbit Systems plant to arming for a future “remigration and deportation offensives,” prompting swift criticism; he later said arms production also covers domestic security equipment, arguing it could strengthen law enforcement, while stressing the AfD’s stance against arming for foreign wars. The controversy drew fire from opposition parties, highlighted the debate over the party’s security and foreign-policy positions, and occurred as the AfD remained the strongest party in the state election with 43.8% and signaled its aim for a stable government; talks with the BSW remain unsettled.