‘Wilders denied fair trial’

RNW

Geert Wilders’ defence lawyer told a court in Amsterdam on Tuesday that his client had been denied a fair trial. The Freedom party leader faces charges of inciting hatred, discrimination against minorities and insulting Muslims.

Last year an appeal court ordered the Public Prosecutor’s office to press charges, despite its belief that the MP was protected by the right to free speech.

In his closing address, defence lawyer Bram Moszkowicz argued that this decision showed bias against his client and was tantamount to denying him the presumption of innocence.

Last week the prosecution restated its initial stance, calling on the court to acquit Mr Wilders on the grounds that politicians have a right to make statements about perceived problem issues facing society.