Absolutely excellent... although this isn't quite over yet.
The public prosecutor stated that today Dutch politician Geert Wilders is not guilty of discriminating against Muslims, after it also announced he should also be found not guilty of inciting hatred.
Prosecutors Birgit van Roessel and Paul Velleman said that some comments could incite hatred against Muslims if taken out of context, but that if the complete texts is considered, it can be seen that Wilders is not against Muslims per sé but against Islamist influence and terrorism..
They reached their conclusions after a careful reading of interviews with and articles by Wilders and a viewing of Wilders' film "Fitna" which examines links between Islam, Qu'rannic passages and Islamist terrorism.
Keep in mind the public prosecutor stated that Geert Wildersbroke no laws but the judge does not have to follow the prosecutor's findings. The judge's verdict will be issued November 5th. Still this is shaping up to be a remarkable victory for free speech, a defeat for Islamism and a turning point for Europe.
Remember, Robert, that the judiciary has already ordered a prosecution when the prosecutors stated there was no crime. The panel judging the case has repeatedly acted against allowing Wilders a full defense. Why believe that they will follow the instructions of the prosecution this time?
ReplyDeleteHi Greg,
ReplyDeleteYour point is well taken, but I think that any verdict the biased panel gives at this point would be overturned on appeal.
And they may very well choose to cut and run. I'mv ery cautiously optimistic.
and a turning point for Europe.
ReplyDeleteuh, i think that is a tad more than cautiously optimistic.