German Chancellor Olaf Scholz delivered a compelling New Year’s Eve address, urging voters to prioritize unity. He emphasized that the February 23 election would be decided by citizens, not “owners of social media channels.”
Voters, Not Extremists, Will Shape Germany’s Future
In his recorded message, Scholz criticized the rising impact of extreme opinions in political debates. “Sometimes, it seems that the more extreme the opinion, the more attention it receives,” he stated. “But it is not the loudest voices who decide Germany’s future. It is the majority of reasonable and decent people.”
Scholz assured voters, “You, the citizens, decide what happens next in Germany. Social media owners do not make that decision.” While he did not name Elon Musk directly, his remarks followed the tech billionaire’s endorsement of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Musk, who owns the social media platform X, claimed to support the AfD’s economic policies while rejecting its “far-right” label.
Combating Disinformation and Preserving Unity
Scholz also addressed the spread of disinformation on X following the December 20 attack at a Magdeburg Christmas market, which left five dead and hundreds injured. “Many of these rumors and speculations have been debunked,” Scholz said. “They divide and weaken us, which is not good for our country.”
The attack, allegedly committed by a Saudi-born man residing in Germany since 2006, has been exploited by the AfD to bolster its rhetoric. AfD leader Alice Weidel described it as “an act of an Islamist full of hatred for human cohesion.” Musk also criticized German authorities on X, calling for Scholz to resign over the tragedy.
Widespread Condemnation of Musk’s Remarks
Musk’s endorsement of the AfD has drawn criticism from politicians across Germany’s political spectrum. Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), likened Musk to Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of attempting to interfere in Germany’s democratic process. Government officials have also noted that the AfD is classified nationally as a suspected terrorist organization.
As the election nears, Scholz’s address aims to foster unity and promote rational political discourse. His message underscores the importance of democratic principles, emphasizing that Germany’s future rests in the hands of its people, not divisive rhetoric or external meddling.