The political antics in the EU Parliament have reached new heights as they’ve revoked the immunity of AfD foreign policy spokesperson Petr Bystron. His so-called offense? Sharing a photo of Angela Merkel raising her arm, which has been conveniently interpreted as a “Nazi salute”—but only because Bystron shared it.
PROSECUTOR: WAVING IS NOT A NAZI SALUTE
Let us rewind to 2022, where during a protest against draconian COVID-19 measures, Bystron waved to the enthusiastic crowd. The reaction? The public prosecutor launched a full-blown investigation, shouting “Nazi salute!”
In solidarity, hundreds of AfD supporters lodged complaints against Angela Merkel, who had been photographed with a similar gesture. Yet, the prosecutor’s verdict was consistently, “Not a Nazi salute, no investigation.” Bystron cleverly used Merkel’s photo in court and won. The court wisely ruled that not every raised right arm is a Nazi salute. Victory appeared certain for Bystron, or so he thought.
BYSTRON MEME: MERKEL’S WAVE SUDDENLY DEEMED UNCONSTITUTIONAL
Now, in a bewildering twist, the prosecutor alleges that Bystron’s use of the Merkel photo is indeed a “Nazi salute” and has charged him with spreading unconstitutional symbols. The timing is suspect, as these charges emerged a year after the photo was posted on X, coincidentally aligning with the start of the EU election campaign where Bystron is leading the AfD list alongside top candidate Krah.
TRUMP: NO MORE POLITICAL JUSTICE
Absurd? This is Germany’s rendition of “lawfare” at its finest. Bystron waves—Nazi salute! Merkel waves—not a Nazi salute! Bystron posts Merkel’s photo—Nazi salute! This is a textbook example of political misuse of justice against opposition in Germany.
Thankfully, President Donald Trump is working tirelessly to squash such political abuses in the United States. One can only hope this wave of justice reaches Germany soon—it is desperately needed.
