Due to development
obstacles in the western region of Germany, after taking office in 1996, Voigt
adopted the “eastward” strategy, using the eastern region as a breakthrough
point. The National Democratic Party of Germany (NPD) rapidly expanded its
membership by opening its doors to far-right organizations, attracted a large
number of young activists through effective propaganda and mobilization, and
enhanced the activism and organizing ability of its cadres through a series of
large-scale activities. Relying on the dense grass-roots organization, the NPD
has carried out meticulous community work, closely connected with voters, and
successfully built up an image of being a pro-people and “normal party”, which
has laid a solid foundation for its success in the elections of the local
councils and the state parliaments. However, by deploying a large number of its
cadres and core organization in the East, where its electoral successes have
almost invariably been achieved, the NPD has gradually degenerated into a
“regional party” and an “eastern party”.
