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

Defense Team Statement: Michael Ballweg

29th Day of Trial – Prosecutor Ensures Survival of QUERDENKEN. Federal Cross of Merit?!

Stuttgart, April, 8, 2025 – On the 29th day of the trial against Michael Ballweg at the Stuttgart Regional Court, three witnesses were heard: a former supporter from the QUERDENKEN-711 team, a merchandise service provider, and an investigator from the State Criminal Police Office (LKA) anti-money laundering task force.

Witness Statements Reveal Political Motivation

The testimony of the LKA investigator was particularly explosive. The proceedings against Michael Ballweg are not based on any specific suspicion, but rather on a money laundering report triggered by an assessment from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The FIU classified Ballweg’s transactions as “relevant to state security” — without connection to any specific crime. According to the investigator, this classification automatically led to the case being passed to the public prosecutor’s office.

Attorney Ralf Ludwig commented:

"A baseless case. The investigation didn't begin due to actual evidence, but because someone wanted to take political action."

Gifts, Not Sales – Yet the Prosecution Keeps Constructing Narratives

Two other witnesses confirmed that merchandise at demonstrations was not sold but freely available. People could give a voluntary donation. For the prosecution, this apparently still suggests a commercial activity.

It also became clear that the prosecution has so far ignored key expense categories: food, logistics, travel, repairs — none of these have been factored into their assessment. One witness reported that up to 20 people were regularly provided for during demo preparations. The indictment continues to rest on shaky ground.

“Meritorious”: Prosecutor’s Statement Raises Eyebrows

A surprising moment came from prosecutor Dr. Gräfe. She stated that Ballweg’s imprisonment actually made the continued existence of QUERDENKEN possible — since after his release, Ballweg resumed organizing demonstrations, essentially as an alibi.

Michael Ballweg later responded with a wink:

"Then maybe Dr. Gräfe should be awarded the Federal Cross of Merit — after all, she ensured the fundamental rights movement could continue to exist."

Next Hearing on Tuesday, April 8, 2025

The trial continues Tuesday. Three additional witnesses from the QUERDENKEN-711 circle are expected — including individuals who received financial support from Michael Ballweg.

The public and press are expressly invited to attend. Independent observation remains a key element of democratic oversight.

Prosecutor Secures QUERDENKEN’s Survival. Federal Cross of Merit?!

Prosecutor Dr. Franziska Gräfe - Federal Cross of Merit?!

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