Eralp: Left Party in Neukölln should focus on social issues - Berlin’s Left Party backs controversial candidate for Neukölln mayor amid antisemitism row
The Left Party’s Neukölln branch has nominated Ahmed Abed as its candidate for district mayor. His candidacy sparked controversy over the weekend, with local politicos condemning his past remarks. Critics accuse Abed of holding anti-Israel positions, including a 2022 allegation of genocide against an Israeli official.
Abed’s nomination drew immediate backlash from Neukölln’s political establishment. District Mayor Martin Hikel of the SPD and the opposition CDU publicly criticised the decision, calling it an 'attack on Jewish life.' The CDU, SPD, and Greens all stated that antisemitic views have no place in the city.
The controversy stems from an incident in October 2022, when Abed accused Tzvika Brot, an Israeli official, of genocide during a visit to Neukölln. The remarks led to widespread condemnation at the time. Despite the criticism, Abed’s campaign is expected to focus on local issues. Elif Eralp, a Left Party advisor, suggested he will prioritise skyrocketing rents, public cleanliness, and social cohesion. Eralp had previously urged the party to centre its election strategy on pressing concerns like housing costs. Neukölln’s local assembly elections, known as the Bezirksverordnetenversammlung (BVV), will take place in September. The race will determine the district’s political direction amid ongoing debates over housing and community relations.
Abed’s candidacy has already intensified political tensions in Neukölln. His campaign will proceed under scrutiny, with opponents emphasising his past statements. The election will decide whether his focus on local issues resonates with voters in September.
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