Judicial fight for freedom of expression: FPÖ triumphs against PR man!

Judicial fight for freedom of expression: FPÖ triumphs against PR man!

The Freedom Parliamentary Club reached a groundbreaking judgment at the Vienna Higher Regional Court (OLG), where it was decided that Wolfgang Rosam, a PR man with close ties to the ÖVP, could be described as a “black system favorite of the first order”. This happened in response to a lawsuit filed by Rosam against FPÖ General Secretary NAbg. Michael Schnedlitz raised a claim after he revealed in June 2024 that Rosam had received over 3.8 million euros in advertisements from various public institutions during the corona pandemic, such as APA OTS reported.

The Higher Regional Court of Vienna rejected Rosam's lawsuit and ruled in favor of the Freedom Parliamentary Club. Schnedlitz commented on the verdict as follows: “The verdict also raises the question of whether Rosam’s services to Nehammer were an illegal party donation,” and emphasized the ongoing investigations against the ÖVP on suspicion of breach of trust and bribery. It should not be forgotten that the rules for political parties in Austria have clearly defined framework conditions that are in the Party legislation are determined. A political party must adhere to democratic principles and is obliged to be transparent regarding donations and advertising activities.

The political landscape is significantly influenced by such legal decisions. This ruling could have far-reaching implications for the trustworthiness of the parties involved and their advisors, particularly with regard to the upcoming elections and the handling of public funds.