The German ex-minister Wolfgang Schäuble only came to Vienna for a few hours on Thursday. Almost the entire Austrian political elite came to the opening of the renovated House of Lords. There were a few exceptions, including those due to illness.
There were only a few exceptions who did not want to witness the opening of the new, old parliament live. Including the two ex-chancellors Christian Kern and Sebastian Kurz. Otherwise, almost everyone who shaped the republic or is currently in power gathered in the House of Representatives. With the exception of FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, who is in bed.
For similar reasons, former German finance minister and long-term mandate holder Wolfgang Schäuble (he has been a member of parliament for 50 years) almost had to cancel his appearance as guest speaker. Schäuble’s supervisor – he has been in a wheelchair for more than 30 years after an assassination attempt – had advised him against traveling to Vienna for health reasons. But the former finance minister of Germany did not want to let Austria down. So he flew especially for the ceremony, gave the speech and left the event right after the opening.
Hardly anyone was interested in Gold Wings anymore
Even though the resentment is often high during the active political period, the enmity is forgotten in the political retirement. Ex-chancellor Franz Vranitzky, who during his time as SPÖ leader called for the red paradigm of not entering into a coalition with the FPÖ, chatted with fallen ex-FPÖ vice-chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache. He asked Strache how his trial would proceed. Strache, who had recently lost 12 kilograms, explained to the ex-chancellor that the WKStA would appeal despite the acquittal.
The controversial golden grand piano – which should have been secured by security during the open day – was used for the first time, but the pianist’s artistic performance hardly interested the guests. There were plenty of thanks that day. Interestingly, none of the official speakers thanked the chairman of the National Council, Wolfgang Sobotka, who has been responsible for the renovation for the past three years. This shows that despite the new building in Parliament, the vote is still in the basement.
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.
