CDU Interior expert Wolfgang Bosbach even brought the mention of a ban into play: “The hurdles for a ban on demonstrations are very high as we know,” he told “Spiegel.” “But if the responsible authorities have concrete evidence that there might be criminal or even violent acts from the planned demonstrations, then they should seriously consider a ban.”

The Union Europäisch-Türkischer Demokraten (UETD - Union of European Turkish Democrats) have registered a rally for Sunday under the theme, “Military coup in Turkey.” Organizers expect up to 15,000 participants, according to police. The UETD supports the ruling AKP party of President Erdogan, who has been ruling by decree since Thursday when he imposed a 3 month state of emergency.

Youth associations have called for a counter demonstration. Cologne Young Socialists, Young Liberals, and youth parties of both the Greens (Environmentalists) and the Left have published on their Facebook pages for a demonstration to stop Erdogan. As of Monday evening, the police could not confirm an application to hold a counter event.

Cologne police commissioner Jürgen Mathies views Sunday with concern. “We have to urgently understand what is being written in the social networks,” he said to the “Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.” It is being considered whether or not the authorities inform the citizens in Turkish on the social networks during the demonstrations. Extreme right party Pro NRW has also called for a counter demonstration. (Orig. text: dpa)