An American businessman openly advertises the AfD on his social network X, which could be considered an illegal party donation.
The Bundestag came under scrutiny after American billionaire Elon Musk announced support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party on the eve of the country’s parliamentary elections. This was reported by Die Welt on Thursday, January 9.
In particular, officials are examining whether Musk’s statements violate the law on political parties in Germany.
“The circumstances of this case are currently being clarified,” said the Bundestag Speaker.
It was noted that Musk openly advertised the AfD on his social network X.
LobbyControl, an organization dedicated to promoting transparency, democratic control and limiting political influence in Germany and Europe, expressed serious concern about this situation and said that Musk’s actions could be considered an illegal party donation.
According to German party law as amended in 2024, campaigning for a party by a third party is equivalent to a donation. Party donations from outside the EU are also prohibited. Elon Musk and his Platform X are registered in the US, which may violate these rules. Monitoring compliance with party funding and election campaign rules is the responsibility of the Bundestag.
In 2020, the Berlin Administrative Court ruled that an advertising campaign in support of former AfD politician Jörg Meuthen, organized by the Swiss company Goal AG in 2016, was an illegal party donation. The court then supported the position of the Bundestag administration in imposing the fine.
Recall that Musk called German Chancellor Olaf Scholz “stupid” after the collapse of the coalition in Germany. In addition, the businessman said that it is alleged that only the AfD is capable of solving the problems facing Germany. These statements come amid preparations for parliamentary elections in Germany scheduled for February 2025.
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.