Kathmandu— German voters in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt will head to the polls on Sunday, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party poised to potentially become the first far-right party to govern a state since World War II. Recent polls place AfD at 40 percent, ahead of the center-right Christian Democrats (CDU) at 23 percent. An absolute majority for AfD could lead to national victory in 2029, according to party candidate Ulrich Siegmund.

Poll Predictions and Party Dynamics

Recent surveys indicate that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is leading with 40 percent support, significantly ahead of the center-right Christian Democrats (CDU) at 23 percent. If AfD wins an absolute majority, it could bypass mainstream parties’ noncooperation policy, which the far-right party has already implemented at the local level. An AfD-led administration under incumbent state premier Sven Schulze is the most likely outcome if the party does not secure a majority. Coalition talks could follow the vote, depending on which parties surpass the 5 percent minimum threshold to enter the German parliament.

AfD's Candidate and Statements

Ulrich Siegmund, a former member of the CDU and AfD candidate, predicted that gaining an absolute majority would lead the anti-establishment party to national victory in 2029. He was previously named ‘Germany’s most dangerous man’ by the influential magazine Der Spiegel. In a campaign rally, Siegmund stated, 'It was the others who erected the firewalls. If no one wants to work with us, then we’ll just have to do it alone.'

CDU's Response and Public Sentiment

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, leading the CDU, urged other politicians to engage more effectively with the AfD. At a local campaign rally in Lower Saxony, Merz said, 'We must address the issues at hand. We must also address our choice of words.' The CDU is currently deeply unpopular, with its state leader in Saxony-Anhalt, Martin Reichardt, making controversial statements such as describing Germany as 'a lazy, anti-social bum reeking of dope.'

Public Demonstrations and Expectations

Thousands of demonstrators gathered for a festival in support of democracy the night before the election. Rally organizers estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people attended the demonstration. Initial results are expected at about 16:00 GMT (6pm local time) on Sunday.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.