Austrian Conservatives Seek New Leader After Chancellor Nehammer’s Exit

Vienna: Austria’s conservative People’s Party (ÖVP) met Sunday to select a successor for Chancellor Karl Nehammer. Nehammer resigned Saturday following failed coalition talks to exclude the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ).

Interim Leadership Announced

After hours of deliberation, Austrian media reported Christian Stocker, 64, as interim leader of the ÖVP. The party has yet to confirm the decision publicly.

Efforts to form a centrist coalition collapsed, leaving President Alexander Van der Bellen with challenging options. A snap election or allowing FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl to form a government appears increasingly likely.

Avoiding a National Crisis

Markus Wallner, governor of Vorarlberg, expressed concerns about a potential national crisis. He opposed snap elections, citing delays in government formation.

Wallner emphasized unity within the ÖVP to prevent instability. Provincial governors like Wallner are crucial members of the ÖVP leadership.

Rising Influence of the Freedom Party

The FPÖ, which won September’s election with 29%, continues gaining support, widening its lead over traditional parties. Opinion polls suggest the FPÖ leads the ÖVP and Social Democrats by over 10 points.

Historically, the ÖVP and FPÖ shared governance. However, the dynamic is shifting, with the ÖVP becoming a potential junior partner.

Possible Coalition Scenarios

Nehammer opposed partnering with Kickl, citing his controversial views and security risks. However, his successor may consider FPÖ collaboration.

The ÖVP previously governed with the FPÖ from 2017 until a scandal dissolved the coalition in 2019. Despite national tensions, state-level coalitions between them exist.

Leadership Uncertainty in the ÖVP

Media speculated earlier about a comeback by ex-leader Sebastian Kurz, but reports suggest lesser-known figures are likely.

Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, 45, Chamber of Commerce Secretary-General, has emerged as a potential contender for ÖVP leadership.

FPÖ’s Clear Message

Meanwhile, the FPÖ remains vocal about its growing support, calling for Herbert Kickl to lead the country. On social media platform X, the party asserted, “Austria needs a Chancellor Kickl now.”

President Van der Bellen is expected to address the nation soon, outlining possible paths forward amid growing uncertainty.