Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) discussions potential backing of prosecuting FPÖ's minister in Gewessler case

Ambassador Gerstl of the OVP Constitution delineates their intent: "To ensure a likelihood exceeding 50% of victory in our court challenge. The FPÖ's appeal revolves around Gewessler's imposition of a halt on infrastructure development projects."

, and ASMedia

2025 June 2 . 4:25 PM

2 min read

Austrian People's Party's constitutional representative Gerstl expresses desire for stronger odds:... — Austrian People's Party's constitutional representative Gerstl expresses desire for stronger odds: Aiming for over 50% probability that the lawsuit to the Federal Constitutional Court progresses, aligning with FPÖ's stance, which stems from Gewessler's blockade of road construction initiatives.

Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) discussions potential backing of prosecuting FPÖ's minister in Gewessler case

The Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) has proposed a ministerial indictment against Leonore Gewessler, the former Minister of Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology. The indictment alleges that Gewessler, in her capacity as minister, unlawfully halted several road construction projects, including the Lobautunnel, for ideological reasons. These projects were part of the Federal Highway Act [2].

In order for the indictment to proceed, a majority in Austria's National Council is required. The OVP, the Austrian People's Party, could provide this majority if they support the FPÖ's motion [2]. The OVP is currently deliberating whether to back the indictment, indicating a shift in their stance from the black-green coalition era when they did not agree to a ministerial indictment against Gewessler [2].

The OVP's potential involvement in this matter indicates ongoing political tension and reorganization within the Austrian political landscape post the 2024 legislative elections. The OVP has been engaged in complex coalition negotiations, and their position on the indictment reflects broader political dynamics [1][2].

The accusations against Gewessler also stem from her role in the EU Renaturation Ordinance, which was met with criticism by the OVP during her tenure [3]. The Greens, led by Gewessler as the designated party head, are facing opposition from parties such as the FPÖ, fueling political conflicts [3].

[1] Regional newspaper, Tiroler Tageszeitung, Saturday edition[2] Austrian Press Agency: New developments in the indictment against Leonore Gewessler[3] Der Standard, 15th March 2025 issue

The ongoing political tension in Austria, following the 2024 legislative elections, has led to the Austrian People's Party (OVP) considering whether to support a ministerial indictment against Leonore Gewessler in the policy-and-legislation sphere, specifically regarding her decisions on road construction projects, which are part of the general-news.
The OVP's engagement in complex coalition negotiations and their potential involvement in the indictment against Gewessler, previously criticized for her role in the EU Renaturation Ordinance, highlight the broader political news involving the shifting alliances and conflicts within the Austrian political landscape.