The controversial Bavarian AfD politician Daniel Halemba is allowed to stay in the party for the time being. A party exclusion process requested by the Federal Executive Board ended with a settlement, as the “Main-Post” in Würzburg reported.

A party spokesman confirmed to the German Press Agency that Halemba should be banned from holding office for 18 months. The 23-year-old will be removed from all party positions with immediate effect. “However, the Federal Executive Board reserves the right to revoke this settlement by October 26, 2024,” said the AfD spokesman in response to a dpa request.

Halemba has been a member of the Bavarian State Parliament since October 2023. The public prosecutor’s office opened investigations on suspicion of incitement to hatred, money laundering, communal coercion and damage to property. Halemba had stated that he was firmly convinced that he had not committed a criminal offense. Within the party, he was accused of violating the statutes. He also defended himself against these allegations. Proceedings before the state arbitration court have now resulted in the settlement.

“It is unbelievable that Daniel Halemba is allowed to remain in the AfD despite incitement to hatred, SS devotional items and the “Sieg Heil” signature,” said CSU General Secretary Martin Huber. The decision shows: “Right-wing extremism and National Socialism are part of the AfD. The AfD is a disgrace for Germany.”

According to information on his state parliament profile, Halemba has been a member of the AfD since 2019. He has been a member of the AfD Lower Franconia district board since 2020 and has been district chairman of the AfD Würzburg since 2023.