Amsterdam:
Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders has appealed for freedom of expression as he goes on trial for alleged hate speech at a time when his popularity and influence in the Netherlands are near all time highs.
Prosecutors say Wilders has incited hate against Muslims, pointing to a litany of quotes and remarks he has made in recent years.
In one opinion piece he wrote "I've had enough of Islam in the Netherlands; let not one more Muslim immigrate," adding "I've had enough of the Quran in the Netherlands: Forbid that fascist book."
Wilders argued Monday that he has a right to freedom of speech and that his remarks were within the bounds of the law.
"I am a suspect here because I have expressed my opinion as a representative of the people," Wilders told judges at the start of the trial.