German Green Party Co-Leader Felix Banaszak Distances Himself from Police-Critical Post by Youth Leader
Felix Banaszak, the co-leader of the German Green Party, has distanced himself from a police-critical Instagram post by the party’s youth leader, Jette Nietzard and her subsequent justification of the post. In an interview with RTL and ntv, Banaszak stated, “It’s clear that this is not the position of the Greens.” He emphasized that, as a public figure, he appreciates the police presence at his events, citing the need for protection from right-wing extremists, Islamists and other potential threats to his safety and the success of the events.
Banaszak stressed that this is an example of effective police work, similar to many other instances. “That’s why I and no one in the Greens, can join a blanket criticism of the police. This is an unacceptable statement and some people made that clear over the weekend. And I see it that way too” he said.
Nietzard had posted a photo on Instagram wearing a sweater with the “ACAB” (All Cops Are Bastards) logo and later defended her hardline police criticism in a stern podcast, stating that she does not hate the police as an institution, but rather the system behind it and the way it has been built. She criticized the lack of transparent and structural reforms in the police, including the handling of violence and racist tendencies.
Banaszak has not personally spoken to Nietzard about the issue, but expressed a desire for her to reflect on her role in the party. “That’s not the first time she has publicly made a provocative statement” he said, adding that he would like to see some consequences for the future.
The future of Nietzard’s position as the youth leader of the Green Party remains to be decided, according to Banaszak.