Major Investigation Targets Far-Right Lawmaker
German authorities have conducted coordinated raids on the offices and residence of Maximilian Krah, a prominent Alternative for Germany (AfD) politician, as part of a sweeping corruption and espionage investigation. The searches targeted locations in Berlin, Dresden, and Brussels, signaling a significant escalation in the case.
Corruption and Espionage Allegations
The Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating Krah for alleged bribery as a member of the European Parliament and money laundering connected to Chinese payments. The investigation focuses on financial flows from companies owned by Krah's former assistant Jian G., who stands accused of spying for China.
"The accusations are absurd and fabricated and purely politically motivated. The search of my office is an attempt at intimidation, which I will defend myself against," Krah stated on social media platform X.
Parliamentary Immunity Lifted
In a crucial development, the German Bundestag today lifted Krah's parliamentary immunity, clearing the way for potential prosecution. This move demonstrates the seriousness of the allegations against the far-right politician.
Krah testified last week before a regional court in proceedings against his former assistant and another espionage suspect. He claimed ignorance of G.'s membership in the Chinese Communist Party and invoked his right to remain silent when questioned about payments from G.
AfD's Tepid Response
The AfD leadership, including co-chairs Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla, described the raids as "serious matters" but offered notably restrained support for their colleague. "We expect the investigation to be concluded quickly and the results to be published," they stated without directly defending Krah.
According to political analysts, Krah has lost his prominent position within the AfD since last year when he led the party's European election campaign. His controversial social media presence and the ongoing investigations have diminished his influence within the far-right movement.