Swiss politician fined for shooting a pistol at Madonna and Child poster
GENEVA — A politician in Switzerland was found guilty on Wednesday for shooting a sport pistol at an auction poster of a 14th-century painting depicting Madonna and child, and then sharing images of the damage online.
Sanija Ameti, a 33-year-old independent council member from Zurich, formerly associated with the Green-Liberal party, received a suspended fine for “disturbing freedom of religion and worship,” according to the Zurich district court.
She was ordered to pay a total of 3,000 Swiss francs (approximately $3,900) as a suspended fine, along with an additional penalty of 500 francs. Prosecutors had originally requested a higher fine. Ameti did not address the court during the proceedings, as reported by Swiss public broadcaster RTS.
Ameti’s attorney did not respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press via email.
In September 2024, Ameti discharged the sport pistol at an auction poster featuring the artwork “Madonna with Child and the Archangel Michael” by Italian painter Tommaso del Mazza from the 14th century.
Images of the damage posted on Instagram were later taken down. Ameti issued an apology after the incident, but the act of shooting and sharing the images sparked controversy, leading to her dismissal from her job in public relations.
Initially, Kath.ch, the website of the media center for the Roman Catholic Church in Switzerland, reported that bishops had denounced the shooting, citing offense to many Catholics. However, Catholic leaders later expressed forgiveness.
Ameti explained that she had been practicing shooting from a distance of approximately 10 meters (33 feet) and believed the poster was a suitable target, only realizing later the religious significance of her actions.
