There was also a counter-demonstration where anti-racist groups accused the AfD of carrying out the attack.
David Begrich of Miteinander eV said people in the city needed a chance to catch their breath.
“There is great concern in migrant communities that they will be scapegoated,” he said. “We don’t want that. We want to organize solidarity across society, but at the same time we are also sensitive to the voices of those who are now reacting with fear and uncertainty.”
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called for national unity, saying “a dark shadow hangs over this Christmas.”
“Hate and violence should not have the last word. We will not allow ourselves to be divided. Let’s be together!” – he said.
Germans are asking how the attack could have happened when security measures were already tightened at Christmas markets and when authorities have checked the suspect several times in recent years.
According to one assessment, the threat he posed was considered “too vague”, while one tip against him in September 2023 appears to have been exaggerated.
