Ulrich Siegmund: AfD Lead Candidate Faces Nepotism Allegations Ahead of 2026 Elections
MAGDEBURG, 06 February 2026 — As Saxony-Anhalt prepares for its state elections this September, Ulrich Siegmund, the lead candidate for the Alternative for Germany (AfD), has found himself at the centre of a burgeoning political scandal. Recent investigative reports have alleged a systemic culture of nepotism within the state parliamentary group, threatening to overshadow Siegmund’s bid to become the first AfD Minister-President in Germany.
The Rise of Ulrich Siegmund
Ulrich Siegmund, born on 25 October 1990 in Havelberg, has rapidly ascended the ranks of the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt. A member of the Landtag since the 7th legislative period, he currently serves as the co-chairman of the AfD parliamentary group. Known for his sharp rhetoric and hardline positions, Siegmund was overwhelmingly confirmed as the party’s top candidate for the 2026 elections during a state party conference in Magdeburg, receiving 231 out of 237 votes.
Despite his popularity within the party base, Siegmund remains a controversial figure. The State Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Verfassungsschutz) has classified the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt as a “proven right-wing extremist” organisation, a label that Siegmund and his colleagues frequently dismiss as politically motivated.
Nepotism Allegations: The “Frontal” Investigation
The current controversy erupted last week following an investigation by the ZDF programme Frontal. The report suggests that several AfD members of the state parliament have employed relatives of their party colleagues in their offices, allegedly using taxpayer-funded budgets to support a closed network of families.
Key Findings of the Investigation:
- Cross-Employment: Allegations suggest a “system” where deputies do not hire their own relatives (which is legally restricted) but instead hire the spouses or children of other AfD lawmakers.
- Ulrich Siegmund’s Role: As the parliamentary group leader and lead candidate, Siegmund is facing scrutiny over whether he facilitated or condoned these hiring practices within his faction.
- Public Reaction: Critics have labelled the findings as “cronyism,” arguing that the party, which often campaigns against the “corrupt establishment,” is engaging in the very behaviour it condemns.
Political Turmoil in Saxony-Anhalt
The timing of these allegations is particularly damaging for the AfD. Just five days ago, reports emerged of an internal power struggle involving a dismissed General Secretary, leading to what local media described as a “mud-slinging match” (Schlammschlacht). These internal divisions, combined with the nepotism scandal, have created a “week to forget” for the party, according to political analysts.
Ulrich Siegmund: Profile and Background
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | 25 October 1990 |
| Place of Birth | Havelberg, Germany |
| Political Party | AfD (Alternative for Germany) |
| Current Role | Member of the Landtag (Saxony-Anhalt), Lead Candidate 2026 |
| Family Status | Married, one daughter |
The Road to September 2025
With the state election scheduled for September 2026, the AfD remains high in local polls, yet the recent scandals have provided significant ammunition for political opponents. Siegmund’s ambition to lead the state government now depends on his ability to navigate these legal and ethical challenges. While he continues to focus his campaign on migration and economic criticism, the “nepotism” tag may prove difficult to shake off in the eyes of undecided voters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Ulrich Siegmund?
Ulrich Siegmund is a German politician and the current co-chairman of the AfD parliamentary group in the Landtag of Saxony-Anhalt. He is the party’s lead candidate for the 2026 state elections.
What are the recent allegations against him?
Siegmund and the AfD Saxony-Anhalt are currently facing allegations of nepotism. Investigations suggest that party members have been hiring each other’s relatives for taxpayer-funded positions in the state parliament.
Is the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt under surveillance?
Yes, the state’s domestic intelligence agency (Verfassungsschutz) has classified the AfD branch in Saxony-Anhalt as a “confirmed right-wing extremist” (gesichert rechtsextrem) organisation.
When is the next election in Saxony-Anhalt?
The next state election (Landtagswahl) in Saxony-Anhalt is scheduled to take place in September 2026.