Leipzig (dpa/sn) - An alliance in Leipzig wants to mobilize thousands of people on Saturday (3 p.m.) for a policy of solidarity in the energy crisis. Under the motto: "That's enough! We don't freeze for the profits" around 40 groups have called for a large demonstration. "We have registered 10,000 participants and hope that we can reach as many people," said Manuela Grimm, managing director of the German trade union federation Leipzig-Nordsachsen, on Wednesday.
In addition to trade unions, the alliance also includes environmental groups, the socialist student association, climate groups, church representatives and the Left Party. The aim is to offer the population a demonstration beyond the right, stressed Grimm. "We must not leave the uncertainty to the right-wing populists."
A fair redistribution of burdens, independence from authoritarian states, significant investment in renewable energies, the continuation of the 9-euro ticket and the expansion of public transport are required. A rally on Augustusplatz is planned for Saturday at 3:00 p.m., followed by a demonstration on the inner city ring road.
The police are preparing for a major operation on Saturday. Several hundred units of the Saxon riot police had been requested, according to a press release. However, the focus is on traffic police measures.
Since there is a Bundesliga soccer game coming up at the same time, people in Leipzig should be prepared for traffic delays in the center on Saturday. At times there will also be closures, especially of the lanes of the city ring road. Those familiar with the area are asked to drive around the area.
