By Anne Losensky
Tiergarten District Court. An incorrigible road blocker is defended by political celebrities: Dr. Gregor Gysi (74) sits in the Bundestag for “Die Linke”, student Lukas P. (24) in the dock.
The verdict: 1350 euros fine (90 daily rates of 15 euros each, 8 x coercion, 6 x resistance, 1 x trespassing).
In 2022, he was stuck in rush-hour traffic with like-minded people (“Last Generation”) on Berlin streets, there were kilometers of traffic jams. On February 15, 2022, he gained access to the Ministry of Justice, sank to the ground and was carried out.
Lukas P. calls the climate protest. Seven siblings. Lives with the aunt. Receives BAföG. Studied mechanical engineering in Munich. He says: “We are protesting against climate policy that is irretrievably sending us into a dangerous world.” He reads out what is on his mind. He is often on the verge of bursting into tears.
“Choose peaceful means with a heavy heart considering the threat…concerned for my future…and that of my younger siblings…never thought I would bother people…need to push myself anew each time…fear of reaction each time…see it as my democratic.” Duty… would much rather lead a choir again and make music… or work as a carpenter… or finish my studies.”
He blows his nose. “I don’t like to disturb my fellow human beings in their everyday life. I apologize to these people, but not for demonstrating to preserve our society.”
Gysi (deep red tie) to the judge: “You should have the courage to acquit him. Sitting is not violence. Right of assembly takes precedence over my right to travel by car. We old people have to learn to listen to them.” But he also says: “I can understand the anger of the drivers. If I had been standing there, I would have been just as angry.”
The verdict is clear: “Criminal behavior, both reprehensible and violent, so guilty,” said District Judge Frank Triebeneck. The political celebrities rushed off: “I have to go to the Bundestag,” says Gysi, “the verdict was expected, but not courageous.” He appealed.
