Karamba Diaby, the first Black African-born member of Parliament in Germany, has announced that he will not be seeking re-election in next year’s general elections. Despite stating that racism was not the main reason for his decision, Diaby has been a target of hate mail, death threats, and violent attacks on his office in recent years.
Diaby, who was elected in 2013 and holds a Ph.D. in chemistry, cited a desire to make way for a new generation of politicians and spend more time with his family as reasons for his departure. The lawmaker, who belongs to Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democrat party, has faced increased harassment, with his office being targeted by bullets and arson.
Diaby has blamed the far-right Alternative for Germany party (AfD) for the rise in racism and threats he has experienced. The AfD’s anti-immigrant rhetoric has gained popularity in recent years, leading to a spike in violence and hate speech directed towards minorities in Germany.
Although the AfD did not immediately respond to requests for comments on Diaby’s decision, he remains committed to making his remaining time in office count. Despite concerns about the rising forces of racism in the country, Diaby’s decision not to seek re-election is seen as an encouragement for young people to get involved and help change society.
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