Ofenauer demands sorry: Stögmüller's attack on Tanner as unfair!

Ofenauer demands sorry: Stögmüller's attack on Tanner as unfair!

Österreich - In the past few days, the political landscape in Austria has gained intensity through a conflict between ÖVP defense spokesman Friedrich Ofenauer and the green deputy David Stögmüller. Ofenauer criticizes Stögmüller's statements about Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, whom he calls a defamation campaign. According to [ots.at] (https://www.ots.at/presseaus-sung/ots_20250720_ots0009/ofenauer-stoegmueller-chuldet-Minister-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner-Tanner, the Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office (WKStA) does not see any initial suspicion in connection with the procurement procedure of the Leonardo-Jets.

Ofenauer describes Stögmüller's allegations as unfounded and calls for a public apology to Minister Tanner. In addition, he criticizes Stögmüller's behavior as inappropriate for a parliamentary member and as harmful to the political culture and the security of the country. "The common goal should be a strong, defensive federal army, not party -political games," said Ofenauer.

trust in politics sinks

These developments are part of a larger trend that is evident in the perception of politicians in Austria. A recent survey by Peter Hajek and Peter Ulram, which was published by Die Die Presse, shows that 64 percent of Austrians believe that politicians are corrupt and bribes. This number has increased significantly in recent decades, from 38 percent in 1981 to 64 percent in 2022.

The study that analyzes the relationship between citizens and politics from 1974 to 2022 indicates a significant change in political culture. Instead of a "trusting subject culture", a "suspiciously critical citizen" culture has developed. 66 percent of the respondents believe that politicians are not honestly taking care of their voters and 73 percent of the citizens feel that their opinions are not valued by the political elites.

The demand for more transparency

In order to strengthen trust in politics, the researchers recommend creating more transparency in political processes. This appeal appears particularly relevant if you look at the statement by Ofenauer, which in the middle of the current controversy emphasizes the importance of a respectful political culture. "The security of the Austrians must be a priority," he appeals to the MPs.

The increasing skepticism of political actors could have long -term effects on the democracy function in Austria, so that the demand for more responsibility and honesty in politics appears more urgent than ever.