Leonore Gewessler blocks the Lobau tunnel. SPÖ and ÖVP are furious and want legal action, the FPÖ calls on the Justitz. What can happen now with the green minister of the environment.
The Greens want to save themselves in the next parliamentary elections. The Lobau tunnel is an absolute no-go for the “Ökos”. That is why Minister of the Environment Gewessler put him on hold.
The city of Vienna and the state of Lower Austria see the blockade as a clear violation of the law. “Parliamentary resolutions must be implemented by ministers,” Viennese City Councilor for Mobility Ulli Sima scolded. In addition to the SPÖ, the ÖVP and FPÖ are also raging. But is that toothless screaming or can Gewessler be held personally liable?
That would be possible:
- The ministerial charge: Officials (such as ministers) can be accused of culpable violations of rights before the Constitutional Court. There is a risk of loss of office if convicted. The scenario is currently unrealistic. The government partner ÖVP would have to agree to a charge. That would be an open break with the coalition and 99.99 percent of new elections. The Turks cannot want that given the current polls.
- The personal indictment: FPÖ traffic spokesman Anton Mahdalik submits a statement of facts to the public prosecutor. The judiciary must check whether Gewessler has deliberately abused the offense under paragraph 180 – willful damage to the environment (because without the bypass, exhaust and dust pollution in Vienna is soaring) – and his official powers. According to Mahdalik, the minister does not enjoy parliamentary immunity. Personal liability would therefore be possible.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
