Luisser nominated as Ombudsman: Praise and sharp criticism expected!

Luisser nominated as Ombudsman: Praise and sharp criticism expected!

On May 22, 2025, the political debate about the nomination of Mag. Dr. Christoph Luisser gained momentum as Ombudsman. FPÖ club chairman NAbg. Mag. Norbert Nemeth commented positively on Luisser's professional qualifications and emphasized his long-standing political career. Luisser, who has been working as a regional councilor in Lower Austria since 2023, brings the values ​​of democracy, the rule of law and humanity into the ombudsman's office. His role in the introduction and management of the Lower Austrian Corona Fund was particularly highlighted, which is part of his extensive task as a state councilor, which also includes the most restrictive immigration law in Austria. Nemeth wished Luisser all the best in his task and thanked the previous public prosecutor Elisabeth Schwetz for her achievements.

But while the FPÖ announces its support for Luisser, his nomination and the associated political implications are met with resistance, particularly from the Lower Austrian Greens. Club chairwoman Helga Krismer referred to a critical audit report that showed ambiguities in the handling of the 31 million euro Covid aid fund, in which Luisser's department was involved. Krismer demanded that an ombudsman should first ensure order in his own house.

criticism and defense

The FPÖ countered the criticism with strong defenses of Luisser. Club chairman Reinhard Teufel described the allegations as an “obsession with profiling” and “cheap polemics”. He praised Luisser for his responsible and good work as a state councilor and sees him as an ideal representative for justice, democracy and the rule of law in the Ombudsman's Office.

Luisser himself expressed gratitude and humility towards his nomination. He emphasized that the ombudsman's office is indispensable for citizens and he wants to focus on representing their rights and needs. In doing so, he takes up a central aspect of democracy, which sees the collective decisions of citizens as the foundation of its legitimacy.

Political debate in the state parliament

The nomination will be discussed further in the upcoming state parliament session, and the Court of Auditors report is also the focus of the political discussions. The debate surrounding Luisser's selection raises questions about the independence and transparency of state institutions, which are essential in the context of a vibrant democracy. In the current political landscape, it is crucial to balance popular sovereignty with the rule of law to counter the influence of populist movements.

In this context, the role of the Ombudsman as someone who protects the rights of citizens and maintains the integrity of state institutions is further strengthened. This is underlined by the need for independent authorities to be kept out of short-term political interests in order to ensure citizens' trust in democracy.