Diakonie dismisses employee for running as AfD candidate

Martina Müller, an administrative specialist and former chairperson of the staff council at the Friedel-Orth-Hospiz Jever, has been summarily dismissed by her employer, mission:lebenshaus gGmbH, after 15 years of service. The termination follows her decision to run as a candidate for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the upcoming local elections for the Friesland district council and the Wangerland municipal council.

The Diakonie-affiliated employer stated that Müller's candidacy for a party classified as right-wing extremist by the Office for the Protection of the Constitution creates a severe conflict with the fundamental values and mission of the church and Diakonie. The organization cited employee guidelines which mandate that staff must not impair the credibility of church and diaconal work through their professional or private conduct. The employer emphasized that their work is based on human dignity, respect, and solidarity.

Müller had previously received a warning on July 30, 2026, requesting she withdraw her candidacies by August 7. Following her refusal to do so, the immediate dismissal was implemented. Müller has announced her intention to take legal action against the decision.