GENEVA (AP) – Swiss prosecutors have officially indicted Sanija Ameti, a city councilor from Zurich, following her controversial actions in September, where she fired a sport pistol at an auction poster depicting a 14th-century Madonna and child painting. The incident garnered significant backlash, leading to her resignation from the local leadership of the Green-Liberal party. Presently, Ameti is listed as an independent on the municipal council's website.
The Zurich public prosecutor's office confirmed the indictment to The Associated Press on Monday, detailing that Ameti is accused of "disturbing religious freedom." Prosecutors are seeking a monetary fine, which amounts to 12,500 Swiss francs (approximately $15,600). The charges stem from the Swiss criminal code, which stipulates that individuals who "publicly and maliciously insult or mock the religious convictions of others" or "maliciously desecrate objects of religious veneration" can be subjected to a financial penalty.
A redacted version of the indictment was made available to the public by the activist group Mass Voll. It highlighted the seriousness of the allegations against Ameti, which has raised alarms regarding the protection of religious freedoms in Switzerland. The incident has sparked discussions about respect for religious sentiments and the limits of expression, particularly in a diverse society.
Ameti, known for co-founding Operation Libero, a liberal and progressive political movement in Switzerland, has faced a chorus of criticism after her act. She issued an apology shortly after the incident and promptly removed the images posted on her Instagram account. Following the backlash, it was reported that she sought police protection due to threats against her. Ameti later claimed she was merely practicing her shooting skills and found the poster "big enough" to serve as an appropriate target.
The auction poster in question featured the work "Madonna with Child and the Archangel Michael," painted by 14th-century Italian artist Tommaso del Mazza. This artwork was promoted in the lead-up to its sale, and the depiction of religious figures in such a context drew Ameti’s ire, although her method of expression sparked outrage among the public and led to the current legal action.
A top official from Operation Libero, which describes itself as a liberal and progressive political movement, did not provide an immediate response to inquiries regarding Ameti’s actions and the ongoing legal proceedings. The situation reflects broader societal tensions about artistic expression, political statements, and religious respect in contemporary Switzerland.
This incident serves as a key case in discussions about the balance between freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs within the Swiss legal framework. The implications of the case may extend well beyond Ameti, as it raises questions regarding the responsibilities of public figures in their expressions and the potential repercussions of actions that may be deemed offensive to certain religious communities.
