Zurich City Councilor Apologizes for Controversial Social Media Post

Sanija Ameti, a Zurich city councilor, issued an apology and sought police protection after posting images of a 14th-century Madonna and Child painting riddled with bullet holes. The controversial images, which were quickly removed, led to an outcry and her eventual dismissal from her consulting job.

Zurich city councilor Sanija Ameti has issued a public apology and reportedly sought police protection following threats received after her controversial social media post. Ameti, a member of the Green-Liberal party, posted images of a 14th-century Madonna and Child painting riddled with bullet holes after a shooting practice.

The images were removed from Instagram shortly after being uploaded, but not before they stirred significant public outrage. Ameti explained that she did not realize the poster's religious content and expressed regret over her actions. The Green-Liberal party has initiated expulsion proceedings against her, and her consulting firm, Farner Group, has terminated her employment.

The incident has sparked criticism from religious groups and heightened political sensitivities ahead of upcoming referendums. The Roman Catholic Church in Switzerland condemned the act, while Ameti's associates and employer distanced themselves from her actions. Despite her apology, the images continued to circulate, further fueling controversy.

(With inputs from agencies.)