Janice R. Andrews
Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is at risk of millions in fines following allegations of illegal party financing. Reports from Der Spiegel and Austria’s Der Standard reveal that the AfD received a record €2.35 million donation from Gerhard Dingler, a former regional manager for Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ). However, investigations suggest the funds originated from German-Swiss billionaire Henning Conle, raising concerns over a potential “straw man” donation scheme.
Under German law, donations exceeding €500 must disclose the donor’s identity. If proven, the AfD could face a fine triple the donation amount—totaling €7 million. The party has yet to comment on the allegations.
The controversy stems from Dingler’s claim that the €2.35 million was for a “real estate project.” The funds were reportedly transferred to a Cologne-based poster advertising company, which then forwarded the amount to the AfD. This is not the first time Conle has been linked to questionable donations. In 2023, the AfD was fined €396,000 for a €130,000 donation tied to Conle during the 2017 general election.
Aurel Eschmann, a party financing expert from NGO Lobby Control, questioned Conle’s motives, stating, “As a German citizen, he could donate without problems. Conle is already well-known as an AfD supporter. Therefore, the fear of reputational damage is an unlikely motive.” Eschmann also urged authorities to investigate whether Conle acted as a straw man for other donors.
Austrian authorities are reportedly probing allegations of money laundering and covert party financing. If confirmed, the scandal could further tarnish the AfD’s reputation amid growing scrutiny over its funding practices. The party, however, is unlikely to face immediate penalties as investigations continue.
This latest development adds to the AfD’s history of controversial donations, raising questions about transparency and accountability in political financing. As the probe unfolds, the case could have significant implications for Germany’s political landscape.
Stay tuned for updates on this breaking story.
