Allegations against Stefan Gelbhaar, a Green Party member of the Bundestag, have sparked controversy and led to the resignation of district politician Shirin Kreße from the party. As accusations of harassment surface, investigations have raised doubts about their legitimacy, with reports suggesting one accuser may not exist. Gelbhaar denies the claims and has filed a defamation complaint. The situation complicates his political ambitions as he steps back from candidacy, impacting the party’s campaign ahead of the elections.
Is There a Conspiracy Against Berlin Green Party Member Stefan Gelbhaar? Recent developments involving allegations against Stefan Gelbhaar, a Bundestag member from the Green Party, have raised questions about potential internal conspiracies within the party. This situation has escalated to the point where a district politician has decided to part ways with the Greens.
As the Bundestag elections approach, the Green Party’s campaign in Berlin finds itself clouded by serious accusations against Gelbhaar, which some believe may be unfounded. In a significant move, Shirin Kreße, a Berlin district politician, has left the party following her resignation as faction leader in the district assembly (BVV) of Berlin-Mitte.
Potential Consequences from Party Leadership
The leadership of the Green Party has signaled that actions may be taken if it’s determined that Kreße falsely accused Gelbhaar of harassment. Felix Banaszak and Franziska Brantner, the party co-chairs, stated that an immediate procedure for exclusion from the party will be initiated if suspicions are confirmed.
Kreße has yet to make any public statements regarding her departure or the ongoing accusations. The connection between her leaving the party and the allegations against Gelbhaar remains unconfirmed.
Fabricated Allegations and Investigations
Allegations of harassment against Gelbhaar have emerged, particularly after his nomination as a direct candidate for the Bundestag election. Various women claimed to the broadcaster rbb that they had experienced sexual harassment from him. Gelbhaar has consistently denied these claims and opted not to pursue a position on the state list.
Recently, rbb retracted portions of its reporting due to concerns about the authenticity of one accuser. Investigations revealed that the individual may not exist at all, raising significant doubts about the validity of the accusations. Furthermore, a Green district politician is suspected of impersonating this individual and providing a false sworn statement, prompting rbb to file a criminal complaint.
Legal Actions and Political Fallout
Gelbhaar described the unfolding events as an ‘incredible incident’ and has reiterated that he has never intentionally harassed anyone. He also confirmed that no criminal complaints have been filed against him; instead, he has lodged a defamation complaint against unidentified parties. The Berlin public prosecutor’s office has acknowledged receipt of this complaint and clarified that there are no current accusations against Gelbhaar.
The controversy has already impacted Gelbhaar’s political aspirations. He and Andreas Audretsch, a Green faction vice and ally of Economic Minister Robert Habeck, were both vying for the second position on the Berlin state list. After Gelbhaar stepped back due to the allegations, Audretsch was elected to the position, which is deemed crucial for entering the Bundestag.
In a statement, Audretsch emphasized that he was not involved in any alleged conspiracy and expressed ignorance regarding the identities of the women who made accusations against Gelbhaar.
This situation continues to unfold, and the implications for both Gelbhaar and the Green Party remain to be seen.