Verdi Cancels Rally in Berlin After Fatal Munich Incident
Munich Tragedy Overshadows Planned Strike Demonstration
In the wake of the tragic incident in Munich, where a car plowed into a demonstration, the German trade union Verdi has canceled its planned rally in Berlin. The union announced the decision during a demonstration in the German capital, which was part of an ongoing strike in the public sector.
"We have learned about the news from Munich and decided to cancel the rally at Spittelmarkt," said Verdi spokesperson Kalle Kunkel. "We feel sympathy for the victims in Munich. Nobody is in the mood to give militant speeches right now."
The news of the Munich incident reached the demonstrators as they were marching from the Federal Ministry of Finance to Spittelmarkt. According to police reports, at least 28 people were injured when a vehicle rammed into a crowd in Munich. The driver, identified as a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker, is in police custody.
Markus Söder, Bavaria’s Minister-President, has described the incident as a "suspected attack." The demonstration in Munich, where Verdi members were protesting, was taking place at the time of the incident. It is unclear whether any protesters were among the injured.
Outpouring of Sympathy and Condolences
Verdi expressed its deepest condolences to the victims and their families. "Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this terrible incident," said Frank Bsirske, Verdi’s national chairman. "We stand in solidarity with the people of Munich and condemn this act of violence in the strongest possible terms."
The union also emphasized the importance of peaceful protests. "We believe in the right to demonstrate and express our opinions," said Bsirske. "But we must always do so in a responsible and non-violent manner."
Impact on Public Sector Strike
The strike in the public sector has been ongoing for several days, with Verdi calling for higher wages and better working conditions for its members. The canceled rally in Berlin was expected to be a major event, with thousands of protesters expected to gather.
Despite the cancellation, Verdi has vowed to continue its strike action. "We will not let this incident intimidate us," said Bsirske. "We will fight for the rights of our members and ensure that their voices are heard."
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the Munich incident is ongoing, with police working to determine the driver’s motive. Bavarian authorities have asked for the assistance of federal prosecutors, indicating that they suspect the involvement of terrorism.
"We are doing everything we can to get to the bottom of this incident," said Police Chief Hubertus Andrä. "We owe it to the victims and their families to find out the truth and bring those responsible to justice."
The tragic events in Munich have cast a shadow over the ongoing public sector strike in Germany. Verdi’s decision to cancel its rally reflects the union’s commitment to the victims and its belief that non-violent protest is essential for a democratic society.
