Appointment Sparks debate

The recent appointment of Bernd Wittig, a lawyer, as a deputy member of the Thuringian Constitutional Court in Weimar has ignited controversy. Wittig’s selection, proposed by the AfD parliamentary group, has drawn scrutiny due to his past online activity, raising questions about his impartiality and commitment to upholding constitutional principles.

The Thuringian Constitutional Court holds significant power, ruling on critical matters such as constitutional complaints, the legality of state parliament inquiries, and election challenges. Recent decisions have included rulings on the five percent threshold for state elections and the legality of COVID-19 curfew restrictions.

Past Social Media Activity Under Scrutiny

Concerns stem from Wittig’s activity on Facebook during 2020 and 2021. Research conducted by MDR reveals that Wittig shared content related to the COVID-19 pandemic and related state measures that were flagged and removed by the platform for containing misinformation. These posts included claims that the pandemic was a fake and accusations of a global corona-made seizure.

One post, originally from a Bavarian AfD politician, likened the situation to the Third Reich, stating: As in the 3rd Reich! The dictatorship is coming! […] Time for more democracy! Time for the AfD!

These posts, according to critics, promoted conspiracy theories and undermined public health efforts during a critical period. As of 2024, studies show that misinformation surrounding COVID-19 has contributed to vaccine hesitancy and distrust in public health institutions, highlighting the potential impact of such online activity.

Conspiracy Narratives and Disparaging Remarks

Investigative reports indicate that Wittig’s Facebook activity included approximately two dozen screenshots from 2020 and 2021, revealing the propagation of conspiracy theories related to COVID-19, migration, and climate change. Furthermore, numerous politicians were reportedly subjected to contemptuous remarks within his online channel.

Support for Controversial Figures

Wittig also shared posts in support of a weimar family judge who was convicted and sentenced to probation. This judge had previously made headlines for attempting to prohibit COVID-19 protection measures at weimar schools through child welfare proceedings. While the ruling initially gained national attention, it was later overturned by the Thuringian higher Regional Court.

Questions of Impartiality

The resurfacing of Wittig’s past online activity raises serious questions about his ability to remain impartial and objective as a member of the Constitutional Court. Critics argue that his propagation of conspiracy theories and support for controversial figures could compromise his judgment on matters related to public health, individual rights, and the rule of law.