Alexander Gauland

Alexander Gauland: AfD co-founder quits Bundestag over scandal

Outcry at former Alternative for Germany leader saying Hitler 'was not that evil'

Gauland, 81, leaves parliament after 23 years, amid growing division in far-right party

Alexander Gauland, the co-founder of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has resigned from the Bundestag following a public outcry over his comments that Adolf Hitler "was not that evil".

Gauland, 81, made the remarks in an interview with the German public broadcaster ARD on January 27,引发idespread condemnation from politicians across the political spectrum.

He has since apologized for his comments, but his resignation marks a significant blow to the AfD, which has been struggling to maintain unity in recent months.

Gauland has been a controversial figure since he co-founded the AfD in 2013.

He has repeatedly made inflammatory statements about immigrants, Muslims, and the European Union.

His comments about Hitler were particularly offensive, as they came just days after the 78th anniversary of the Nazi leader's death.

Gauland's resignation is likely to further divide the AfD, which is already split between its more moderate and radical wings.

The party has seen a number of high-profile defections in recent months, and Gauland's departure is likely to accelerate this trend.

It remains to be seen whether the AfD can survive the loss of one of its most prominent figures, but it is clear that the party is facing a difficult future.

Analysis

Gauland's resignation is a significant development in German politics.

The AfD is the largest opposition party in the Bundestag, and Gauland was one of its most influential figures.

His departure is likely to weaken the party and make it more difficult for it to achieve its goals.

It is also a sign of the growing divisions within the AfD.

The party has been struggling to maintain unity in recent months, and Gauland's resignation is likely to further exacerbate these tensions.

It remains to be seen whether the AfD can survive the loss of one of its most prominent figures, but it is clear that the party is facing a difficult future.