Farmer president calls activists 'terrorists' in court over farm protest

Bavarian Farmers' President Günther Felßner has labeled activists involved in a protest on his farm as "terrorists" during court proceedings. Felßner, a CSU politician, stated, "I consider it a terrorist act." He argued that the activists were prepared to use violence and break laws to achieve their objectives, emphasizing that his family was "attacked."

“

I consider it a terrorist act.

Seven activists from the group "Animal Rebellion" are currently facing charges of trespassing at the Nuremberg court. They are accused of participating in a protest in March of the previous year at Felßner's farm in Lauf an der Pegnitz. The demonstration involved pyrotechnics and banners, protesting Felßner's potential appointment as the Federal Minister of Agriculture and alleged poor conditions in cattle farming.

“

My family is attacked.

Following the protest, Felßner withdrew his candidacy for the position. Testifying in court, the 59-year-old stated, "This action was directed specifically at me and my family. Life is no longer the same for us." He reported that his wife continues to suffer from health issues related to the incident and experiences ongoing fear while working in the stable.

“

This action was directed specifically at me and my family. Life is no longer the same for us.

The trial at the Hersbruck Local Court was initiated because the seven defendants did not accept their penalty orders. Due to space constraints, the proceedings were moved to the Nuremberg justice building. A total of 13 individuals were initially charged; one accepted a penalty order, and proceedings against others were separated. Further witnesses are scheduled to testify, and it remains unclear if a verdict will be reached on the same day.

“

She was so panicked back then that she couldn't properly explain to the police on the phone what was happening. The police therefore didn't take her seriously at first.