A hospice employee in Lower Saxony has been terminated from her position after announcing her candidacy for a political party classified as extremist by authorities. The decision has sparked debate over workplace values and political affiliations.

Martina Müller, a 60-year-old hospice worker with 15 years of experience, lost her job after deciding to run as a candidate for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in upcoming local elections. Müller, who had also served on the employee representation committee, stated that her dismissal has stripped her of her livelihood. She plans to challenge the termination through legal action, asserting that she has done nothing wrong and values principles like humanity and respect.

The hospice organization, operated by mission:lebenshaus gGmbH, defended its decision, citing the values upheld by its parent organization, the Church and Diakonie. In a statement, the organization emphasized its commitment to human dignity, solidarity, and support for vulnerable individuals. It argued that Müller’s affiliation with a party deemed by authorities as significantly extremist conflicts with these core principles. The decision was reportedly made following a thorough review of legal and ethical considerations.

The AfD party in Lower Saxony is under observation by domestic intelligence due to concerns about its alignment with constitutional values. A recent court ruling upheld this classification, describing the party as having a constitutionally hostile agenda. Müller’s dismissal has reignited discussions about the intersection of political beliefs and professional obligations, with critics questioning whether such actions infringe on individual rights. The case is expected to draw further attention as legal proceedings unfold.