Muslim 'Hate Speech' Goes To Court In Netherlands

Dutch politician on trial on hate speech charges

AMSTERDAM — Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders went on trial Monday [10-4-10] for alleged hate speech, even as his popularity and influence in the Netherlands are near all time highs.

If convicted, he faces up to a year in prison. He could keep his seat in parliament.

Prosecutors say Wilders incited hatred against Muslims with remarks comparing Islam to Naziism and by calling for a ban on the Quran. Wilders argues he has a right to freedom of speech and his remarks were within the bounds of the law.

"The freedom of expression of at least 1.5 million people is standing trial together with me," he wrote, referring to the voters that made his Freedom Party the third-largest in national elections in June.

The case has generated huge interest in the Netherlands and the opening was broadcast live on television.
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re: "Prosecutors say...incited hatred against Muslims"

This case has been pending for some time now. Geert Wilders was 'banned' from the UK back in Feb. '09 because they decided to make an example of him and show 'hate-speech solidarity' with the Netherlands:

First 'Hate Preacher" Banned From UK...Orwellian Style 2-13-09 "While the odds are extremely high that this little publicity stunt is completely staged and intended as an 'object lesson', the message has been sent to the world. Bow to the rising authoritarian system or be persecuted. The precedent has been set...open season on 'unapproved speech' is about to commence." [see post]

It was less than a year ago that the Orwellian "Hate Crimes" bill was passed in this country: here. And as for the Muslim/Koran issue in Wilders case...it's not only about free speech, but it's about forced societal acceptance of Islam, mandatory for the creation of interfaith world religion. This one is a pretty big deal, with far-reaching ramifications.
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1John 2:23 'Whosoever denieth the Son [the Lord Jesus Christ as God], the same hath not the Father'