German far-right politician on trial again for alleged use of Nazi slogan

BERLIN (AP) — A prominent German far-right politician who plans to run for governor of an eastern state later this year was put on trial for a second time Monday on charges of knowingly using a Nazi slogan during a political event.

Björn Höcke was fined 13,000 euros ($13,900) last month for using the symbols of an unconstitutional organization, a verdict his lawyers are appealing. The trial which opened on Monday at the state court in Halle concerns a second alleged use of the same slogan.

The first case concerned a speech given in Merseburg in May 2021 in which Höcke, a prominent figure in the Alternative for Germany party, used the expression “All for Germany!”

The judges agreed with prosecutors' argument that he was aware its origin was a slogan of the Nazis' SA stormtroopers. Höcke, a former history teacher, said he was innocent and claimed it was an “everyday saying.” His lawyers are appealing the verdict.

The second charge against Höcke was added to his first trial shortly before it began, but the judges then decided to try it separately because his defense team had recently changed.

Prosecutors say he did it again at an Alternative for Germany, or AfD, event in Gera last December, “knowing with certainty” that using the slogan constituted a criminal offense.

Höcke is said to have said “All for…” and encouraged the audience to shout “Germany!”

Alternative for Germany has built up a strong core of support, particularly in the formerly communist East – including Eastern countries. state of Thuringiawhere Höcke plans to lead his party's campaign in the September 1 elections. His strength in this region propelled him to second place in the poll. European Parliament election earlier this month, where he received 15.9% of the vote despite recent scandals and setbacks.

The charge of using the symbols of an unconstitutional organization can result in a fine or up to three years in prison. Two hearings are scheduled for the trial, the second on Wednesday.