Kickl as a hero or a danger? FPÖ in the tension of power

Kickl as a hero or a danger? FPÖ in the tension of power

Just yesterday there was an emotional uproar in the FPÖ after Herbert Kickl's withdrawal from coalition negotiations with the ÖVP. The reactions within the party are mixed: While some members celebrate Kickl as a “hero” who demonstrated the comparatively weak ÖVP, others express concern about the right strategy. Loud oe24 Kickl seemed relieved when he decided to give up the government formation mandate. However, this attitude is being questioned in the background, particularly with regard to the role of Reinhard Teufel, one of his closest confidants, who was heavily involved in the negotiations.

Uncertainties in the FPÖ and the ÖVP

The pressure on the ÖVP to form a coalition with the FPÖ is growing, but Kickl's uncertainty factor is causing skepticism. How profile reports, Kickl deeply distrusts the ÖVP since he was proposed for dismissal as Interior Minister in 2019. Despite a significant election victory for the FPÖ, which almost doubled its share of the vote, it remains unclear whether Kickl can adopt the cooperative stance that would be necessary for a stable government. Kickl's demands include control of key departments; a tactic seen as a provocation.

The uncertainty within the ÖVP is noticeable, especially in view of the conditions demanded, such as an end to the UN location in Vienna or the preference for national laws. These aspects could not only endanger the negotiations, but also isolate Austria internationally. There are rumors within our own ranks that some members would be willing to question or even reject the coalition, which shows how tense the situation is and how uncertain the future of a possible coalition between the FPÖ and ÖVP remains.