Far-right politician faces trial over alleged use of Nazi slogan in Germany

In Berlin, a well-known German far-right politician, Björn Höcke, faced his second trial on Monday for allegedly using a Nazi slogan at a political event. This trial follows a recent 13,000 euro fine he received for using symbols of an unconstitutional organization, a verdict currently under appeal. The new trial, held at the state court in Halle, focuses on a separate instance of the same slogan's alleged use. The initial case revolved around a speech in Merseburg in May 2021, where Höcke, a prominent figure in the Alternative for Germany party, uttered the phrase “Everything for Germany!” Prosecutors successfully argued that he was aware of its Nazi origins, while Höcke maintains his innocence, claiming it was merely an "everyday saying." The second charge against Höcke was introduced just before his first trial began, but due to changes in his defense team, it was decided to try it separately. Prosecutors claim that he repeated the offense at an AfD event in Gera in December, knowingly committing a criminal offense by using the slogan. The Alternative for Germany party has garnered significant support, particularly in the eastern region, including Thuringia, where Höcke aims to lead the party's campaign in the upcoming election on September 1. Despite recent controversies and setbacks, the party secured a strong second-place finish in the recent European Parliament election, obtaining 15.9% of the vote. The charge of using symbols of an unconstitutional organization carries a penalty of a fine or up to three years in prison, with two court sessions scheduled for this trial, the second set for Wednesday. Höcke's legal troubles stem from his alleged use of a Nazi slogan, a sensitive issue given Germany's history. The ongoing trials have implications for his political career, especially as he seeks to secure a leadership position in Thuringia. The controversy surrounding his actions underscores the challenges faced by far-right politicians in Germany, where any association with Nazi symbols or slogans is met with strong condemnation. As the trial progresses, the outcome will not only impact Höcke personally but also have broader implications for the Alternative for Germany party and its electoral prospects in the upcoming state election.