35th Day of Trial – Querdenken Witnesses Confirm Support by Ballweg

Ballweg Funded Infrastructure – Voluntarily and Without Compensation

All three witnesses confirmed that Michael Ballweg covered the costs for digital infrastructure for local Querdenken groups – including Telegram bots, a protest calendar, a directory of initiatives, and IT support. It was also made clear again that these payments were not in exchange for services, but made voluntarily and without contractual obligation.

“Ballweg simply supported – without asking questions, without expecting anything in return,” said attorney Hans Böhme. “That doesn’t fit the idea of a commercial scheme.”

Two of the female witnesses also stated that Ballweg spoke at demonstrations without receiving payment and at his own expense.

Court Declares Donation Collection Legally Irrelevant

One surprising detail: one witness had collected donations and organized payments for her local group. The defense then filed a motion for the right to refuse testimony under § 55 of the German Code of Criminal Procedure, citing possible tax relevance. The court, however, made its position clear: “Collecting money for demonstrations is completely irrelevant in criminal law.”

“The court says: collecting donations is irrelevant – but for Ballweg, it’s supposed to be a tax crime? That contradiction is striking,” said attorney Dr. Reinhard Löffler.

International Attention: Guest from the Kennedy Circle

Michael Ballweg was especially pleased to welcome an international trial observer from the United States — from the circle around Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The guest attended the hearing in person.

“I am deeply grateful for the international interest and support — especially from a movement that shares our values,” said Ballweg.

Outlook

The trial will continue on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. On that day, attorney Beate Bahner is expected to appear as legal counsel for a witness. Another prominent visitor is also expected — her identity remains confidential for now.