Amsterdam, 11 September, 2023 (GNP): Dutch court has sentenced former Pakistani cricketer Khalid Latif to 12 years in prison for inciting violence against Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders.
The court deemed Latif’s statements as incitement to murder, sedition, and threats, marking a significant step in safeguarding free speech and democracy.
During the trial, which Latif did not attend as he resides in Pakistan, it was revealed that he posted a video in 2018 offering a substantial reward for the murder of Wilders.
Also Read: Prominent human rights activist and politician arrested in Pakistan
This video coincided with widespread protests in Pakistan against Wilders, triggered by his announcement of a cartoon contest featuring caricatures of the Muslim Prophet Mohammad, which was later canceled. These caricatures were regarded as highly offensive and forbidden in Islam.
The Hague district court emphasized the explicit nature of Latif’s words, emphasizing that he had promised a considerable sum of money to anyone willing to engage in the specific act of killing Mr. Wilders. The court further warned that Latif’s call could potentially incite violence worldwide.
Geert Wilders, known as one of Europe’s most prominent far-right leaders, welcomed the court’s decision, stating, “It is a good sentence, but it’s a pity that the accused is not here in court.” He expressed his determination to seek the arrest and extradition of Khalid Latif from Pakistan to the Netherlands, urging his government’s cooperation.
Also Read: Rahul Gandhi convicted of defamation, sentenced 2 years
The Netherlands’ Party for Freedom (PVV), led by Wilders, is the third-largest party in the Dutch parliament and has played a significant role in shaping the immigration debate in the country over the past two decades. Geert Wilders has been under continuous police protection since 2004 due to threats to his life.