The Freedom Party (FPÖ) wins the national election in Austria for the first time since 1945, leaving Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s People’s Party (ÖVP) in second place and the Socialist Party (SPÖ) in third place.
With 77.6% of the vote counted, the far-right FPÖ wins 29% (+12.8 from the 2019 election), the ÖVP 26.3% (-11.1) and the SPÖ 21% (-0.2 ). The liberal NEOS with 9.1% (+1) and the Greens with 8.3% (-5.6) still secure their entry into the parliament, which apparently “pay” for their participation in the government. Voter turnout exceeded 78%.
With the results so far, the FPÖ secures 57 seats, the ÖVP 52, the SPÖ 41, NEOS 17 and the Greens 16. The centre-right ÖVP, which has so far co-governed twice with the far-right, has said it could resume a coalition, provided that the head of the Freedom Party Herbert Kickle, who has nevertheless repeatedly stated that he is seeking to become “the people’s chancellor” himself, does not participate in the government. In his appearance tonight, however, Mr. Nehammer, although he repeated that “we will not support the methods of Mr. Kickl”, noted that “the concerns of those who voted for the FPÖ should be taken seriously.”
The “green” federal president Alexander van der Bellen has also left open the possibility of not giving Mr. Kickl the mandate to investigate the formation of a government. If the distribution of seats remains as it is, a “grand” coalition government could be formed between ÖVP and SPÖ, but with only a slim majority. A possible third partner could be sought between NEOS and the Greens.
In his first reaction to the result, Chancellor Nehammer spoke of a “big fight” at the end of the election period, pointing out that he took over the party when opinion polls gave it 21%. “Our goal was first place and it was not achieved (…) In the future we will have to look more closely at why the radical forces get more votes,” he added. What is certain is that the ÖVP will in any case be in the next government, but it remains to be decided whether it will appoint the chancellor or participate as a “minor” partner.
Election victor Herbert Kickle spoke of a “clear message” from voters and declared himself “ready” for the chancellorship. “Our hand is outstretched,” said leader Andreas Babler, referring to possible government cooperation with the People’s Party.
Read also
Hassan Nasrallah: Hezbollah confirms his death – Three days of mourning in the country
Karystianou: The trial cannot begin, they have made sure that evidence is missing – I have not yet mourned as I want (Video)
Water scarcity: Mitsotakis opened the cannulas for bribes and private individuals – Scientists and experts talk in Documento about Skylakakis measures
Hostages of the servicers are 2,271,548 debtors
Who are the “excellent” DYPA Governors with sensitive ears who spread the money for the purchase of expensive electrical appliances
#Austria #farright #FPÖ #wins #elections #formation #government #puzzle
