Notice: This press release has been automatically translated. Original German Version.

Defense Team Statement: Michael Ballweg

20th Trial Day in the Case Against Michael Ballweg – Foundation Issue Lacks Substance for the Prosecution

Stuttgart, February 11, 2025 – The 20th day of the trial against Michael Ballweg at the Stuttgart Regional Court focused on the establishment of a foundation. Two witnesses who had advised Ballweg in this process testified, providing clarity on the procedures. Once again, the prosecution failed to substantiate any serious allegations.

Witnesses Confirm Proper Foundation Establishment

The two summoned witnesses, experienced consultants in foundation law, appeared well-prepared and brought all relevant documents. They confirmed that Michael Ballweg acted in full compliance with legal regulations when planning his foundation.

Michael Ballweg commented: "Today, we saw how private enterprise works: The witnesses had all the necessary documents with them, while the prosecution hadn’t even bothered to obtain them beforehand. Actually, it is their duty to conduct exculpatory investigations as well."

Prosecution Focuses on Irrelevant Details

Despite the witnesses’ professional and factual testimony, the questioning was at times confrontational. Attorney Gregor Samimi described the situation: "The prosecution got lost in details about irrelevant matters, such as the duration of phone calls between the parties involved. Their handling of the witnesses was at times aggressive rather than aimed at objective clarification."

Samimi also noted that the courtroom atmosphere had gradually relaxed: "After 20 days of hearings, the initially tense atmosphere has softened. However, today, the presiding judge reminded us not to speak with trial participants in the hallways—apparently, there had been complaints from some witnesses."

Ballweg Faces Another Bank Account Termination

Michael Ballweg also addressed another pressing issue: the repeated termination of his bank account. "It’s always the same: As soon as I organize a demonstration, my bank account gets closed. But I will continue. This time as well, there will be a demonstration when the court in Berlin rules on the dissolution of the 2020 protests on February 13."

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Trial Days

On February 13, 2025, a hearing at the Berlin Administrative Court will address the unlawful dissolution of the QUERDENKEN protests in August 2020. Michael Ballweg will be present and calls for supporters to attend the accompanying demonstration.

The next trial day in Stuttgart is scheduled for February 18, 2025, when the lead criminal investigator responsible for compiling financial data in the case will testify.

Ballweg concluded: "It will be interesting to see how the costs of the Berlin trial and demonstration will be classified. Are they related to QUERDENKEN or not? We will find out."

Contact

All press inquiries are handled centrally by the press team of QUERDENKEN-711 and can be submitted via the official press form: https://711.is/presseanfrage