The Brandenburg Office for the Protection of the Constitution is preparing to classify the regional AfD as a "proven extremist organization.

" This decision, based on a November report, was delayed due to concerns about influencing the upcoming federal elections.

The AfD in Brandenburg is currently labeled as a "suspected case" of extremism, but authorities argue its nationalist rhetoric undermines democratic principles.

Similar classifications have already been made in other German states like Saxony and Thuringia.

AfD leader René Springer criticized the move, calling it a political tool against opposition.

The final decision is expected after the February elections, sparking debates about the timing and implications of such classifications.