Controversy around the reopening of the club Cící in new building

Controversy around the reopening of the club Cící in new building

An exciting duel between gastronomy, politics and legal challenges has unfolded in the busy Mariahilferstrasse. Martin Ho, a prominent "scene gastronomy", is the focus of a controversy that revolves around the night club "Cící". On Sunday, HO via Instagram turned to the green district leader Markus Reiter to defend his position. Reiter decided against the planned reopening of the former "Hidden Club" on the night of Halloween, which for the time being succeeded: the club received no approval for the event.

Mariahilferstrasse, as the largest shopping street in Austria, plays a crucial role in this story. Although HO is considered the operator of the night club, he has not been officially involved in a business role since November 6th. This ambiguity raises many questions: Why is HO fight so vehemently for a club that is no longer in his possession? And what drives riders to prevent the return of the club?

a mix of sweets and nightlife

In addition, riders expressed concerns about "outstanding payments" who go back to more than 44 employees who are still waiting for their salary from the insolvent Dots Group. A special indictment against HO is the fact that the original "Hidden Club" was registered as a candy store before it had to close in December 2023.

The night club has now reopened under the new name "Cící" and actually also sells sweets. On September 18, the managing director of DOTS Club GmbH applied to change the name of the company in "XXKXIX GmbH". The magistrate has been asked to carefully examine the financial situation of HO, since its activities have noticed very negatively in recent years. Surprisingly, the "Cící" club finally received permission for its opening after a wave of uncertainties on November 9th.

The managing director Christian EDY is said to be closely connected to Martin Ho and was the one who requested approval for the club. He is no stranger to the Vienna club scene and also leads other establishments such as the "Prater Sauna". In the game for permits and licenses, the question of the business relationships and the economic situation arises behind the scenes.

mutual attacks on social media

Although HO officially withdrawn from the "Cící" management, he vividly spoke on Instagram and mocked by Reiter's decision. With the hashtag "#AintnobodyfuckingWithmyclique", HO signals that he will not accept this kind of political interventions. With his position, Reiter, on the other hand, pursues compliance with the legal regulations and a harmonious coexistence in the district.

The Social Media appearance of EDY was milder. He expressed gratitude towards the authorities and showed compassion with those who were disappointed due to the delays. In view of this confrontation, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop. The struggle for permits and public opinion will certainly continue.

The complex conditions between the actors in the catering scene and the political landscape again illustrate how closely economic interests and local politics are intertwined. Another aspect is the uncertainty that exists in the industry, especially for the employees of the Dots Group who have to wait for outstanding wages.