The mystery surrounding local elections in Germany’s North Rhine–Westphalia province deepens as two more politicians from the right-wing anti-immigration Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) were reported dead unexpectedly, just days before the vote.
As Hungarian Conservative reported earlier this week, the sudden death of Ralph Lange in Blomberg marked the fourth such case in little more than ten days. Now, media reports suggest that two additional reserve candidates have also died.
Moreover, German outlet Die Welt wrote that in addition to these six cases, Hans-Joachim Kind, a direct AfD candidate in Kremenholl, a district in southern Remscheid, also died shortly before the election. The 80-year-old, however, passed away from natural causes after a long illness. In that sense, his case differs from the others, as his death was not unexpected. Kind’s passing brings the total number of deceased AfD candidates to seven.
‘There are “no indications” of murder or foul play’
Kay Gottschalk, deputy state chairman of the AfD in North Rhine–Westphalia, rejected speculation about the deaths on Tuesday in an interview with WELT TV. ‘We will of course pursue the cases with the necessary sensitivity and care,’ Gottschalk said, adding that there are ‘no indications’ of murder or foul play.
Authorities likewise stated that there is no evidence linking the cases, nor any signs of third-party involvement. According to Die Welt, candidates from other parties have also died after their nominations, with six such cases recorded outside the AfD.
As Hungarian Conservative previously reported, the elections will be held on 14 September 2025. The sudden deaths of several candidates have put heavy time pressure on local administrations to reprint polling cards and postal ballot documents.
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