Schroeder slapper to be prosecuted

Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder’s office filed a criminal complaint today against a 52-year-old unemployed teacher who slapped the German leader in the face at a campaign reception.

The man lunged at Schroeder last night while he met with local activists of his Social Democratic Party before a speech in the western city of Mannheim. The government agency responsible for Schroeder’s security said it was investigating the lapse.

Schroeder was not injured, but his spokesman said the incident should not go unpunished.

Prosecutors said the man, who was not identified by authorities, would likely be charged with causing bodily harm and insulting a public figure.

“One has to make clear when the line is crossed beyond political debate,” Schroeder’s spokesman Bela Anda said.

Police said the man refused to answer questions about his motive and was released lfter being booked.

Schroeder’s popularity is in a slump because of Germany’s stagnant economy, a jobless rate above 10% and a drive to trim social programs.

His assailant joined the Social Democratic Party in February, party spokesman Andreas Reissig said. That apparently allowed him to get a pass to enter the event at a Mannheim convention centre.