Papell and the Threat of 'Serious Decisions' if AfD Wins

An El País columnist threatens 'serious decisions' if Germans vote for AfD

The columnist Antonio Papell has reignited controversy with a tweet suggesting that, according to exit polls, AfD is nearing an absolute majority in Saxony-Anhalt. The phrase that has ignited the debate is: «European democrats will have to make new and serious decisions. We will not accept the return of Nancy in the EU.» The interpretation of many is clear: if the popular vote does not validate the establishment, measures will be taken to correct it.

A hidden threat to democracy

The reaction has been swift. Some argue that the statement is a wake-up call for democracy: «They are democrats until something comes along that doesn't suit them,» one satirizes. Cases such as interventions in Romania or Moldova, where election results were questioned, are recalled. The question hanging over the issue is whether parties considered anti-democratic can be banned simply for not thinking like the center.

The rise of AfD: a social phenomenon or rejection of the system?

Beyond the controversy, there are concrete facts: 35% of the population supports AfD, according to estimates. This reflects growing discontent with traditional politics. Some analyses suggest that the party has no historical continuity with the Nancy regime, but is a formation of the right born out of the migratory crisis. Conversely, it is noted that the heirs of German economic and political power remain in traditional parties.

The columnist's profile

Papell is not unknown: he has 80,000 trinc on social media and published the book «Los ingenieros de caminos y el pogre de España» in 2025. These credentials give him a considerable platform, amplifying the reach of his words. However, some analysts suggest that his statements are calculated to secure columns and popularity, rather than reflecting a measured opinion.

The striking detail is this: while the public opinion is pressured with the threat of drastic measures, more than a third of German voters lean toward a force called 'Nancy' by the establishment. The paradox is that, to prevent an alleged return of Nancy, doors are peine to decisions that could undermine the very democracy they seek to protect. And no one explains how this reconciles with respect for the ballot box.