In recent weeks, it was announced that Bagida will change their name to ‘Pegida Muenchen’, and had their new banner on display today. Stuerzenberger’s absence has left a hole which was filled in by neonazis being directed by Birgit Weissmann and Stefan Werner- definitively revealing it as a far-right movement. Attacks and aggression against journalists andordinary citizens are more commonplace under their leadership.
This week was one of Pegida München’s weakest rallies: Only 110 attended. The internal conflicts were apparent in the crowd- unfriendly chats with Stuerzenberger were highly disruptive, while during a speech Peter M. is told to calm down or the police will be called. This appeared to not dissuade him. Some impressions:
BAGIDA renamed themselves: PEGIDA München
After her confused speach and the quiet march through Munich, Maria Frank collects contributions.
Having been deposed as leader of Bagida in a coup supported by neonazis, Stuerzenberger’s role at Bagida has been reduced to that of a ‘journalist’. Weissmann announces his presence as ‘Bagida-friendly’, despite a scathing article he wrote about his former group on a hate site.
Near the podium, unrest in the form of arguments between Peter Meidl (under investigation for Holocaust denial) and other bagida members broke out. At times, these arguments created disruptions during the speeches.
Stefan Werner, who replaced Michael Stuerzenberger as leader of Bagida/Pegida Muenchen, continues to treat journalists as the enemy and often meets them with aggression.
Twice during the demonstartion a politician with the SPD (Social Democrats) attempted to create a blokade of the route. He was subsequently removed by the USK (special police forces).
Neonazi activist Stefan S., now seen with the Holocaust-denying party die Rechte, attempts to use his girth to block joirnalists.
Despite rallying on Facebook and in person for the need of a new nationalist movement that unites all rival nationalist factions, Philipp Hasselbach (die Rechte party), he was nowhere to be found during this rally.
Regardless of this showing, it is still evident that Munich and the surrounding areas remain heavily indoctrinated with nationalistic and racist mindsets.