German quits in anti-Semitism row

German quits in anti-Semitism row

Moellemann's remarks sparked demonstrations - for and against

A populist German politician who sparked a row over allegedly anti-Semitic remarks has resigned from his party.

Juergen Moellemann had been under pressure to quit his Free Democratic Party (FDP) since his remarks in the run-up to German elections last year.

At the time he was party deputy leader, a position he was forced to give up as the row deepened.

There is speculation that Mr Moellemann, a former economy minister and vice-chancellor, may now set up his own party.

There has been a witchhunt to drive me out for the last six months - that's why I am quitting

Juergen Moellemann

As well as criticising Israeli leaders, he had launched a verbal attack on talk-show host Michael Friedman, who is also vice-president of the German-Jewish community.

Mr Moellemann said he had been forced out of his own party.

"There has been a witchhunt to drive me out for the last six months," said Mr Moellemann in a statement.

"That's why I am quitting after 18 years as chairman of the party's biggest state organisation and after 33 years as a member."

"At a time when clear words are needed on both domestic and foreign policy... I no longer want to waste my energy on defending myself against this strategy of destruction."

Moellemann may form his own party

Mr Moelleman found himself involved in more than one row over alleged anti-Semitism.

He backed a politician who had accused Israel of using "Nazi methods" against the Palestinians.

He later accused Israeli leader Ariel Sharon of warmongering.

Mr Moellemann had already been expelled from the FDP's parliamentary group.

He will retain his seat in parliament, and says he will operate as an independent while he decides whether to launch a new party.

Funding inquiry

"What I fought for in the FDP I will now fight for as an independent democrat and an independent legislator," he said.

"One thing I will not do: give up - either my goals or my commitment to those goals."

Mr Moellemann is also facing a party inquiry over how the leaflet was funded.

The row was blamed for the party's poor showing at the polls, when it took only 7.4% of the votes.

Mr Moellemann has denied that his remarks were intended to tap into anti-Semitic views, in order to pick up more votes.