The mayor of Vienna, Michael Ludwig, twice transferred a total of 1.4 billion euros to Wien Energie last year. That led to the U-Commission – in which Ludwig now had to explain.
The appearance of Viennese city boss Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) was eagerly awaited before the U-Commission. In less than five hours he explained his vision of the financial turbulence of the past year at Wien Energie. As a reminder: The municipal energy supplier received twice 700 million euros via emergency power to be able to deposit guarantee payments on the energy exchange.
“Transparent and cohesive”
The opposition mainly wanted to know how long the mayor was aware of the turbulence. Ludwig only confirmed the known version. On July 8 and 12, he had more specific conversations about possible liquidity problems with city councilor Dietmar Griebler and city councilor Peter Hanke. On July 15, Ludwig finally got the company document for the first emergency authorization. Ludwig: “For me everything was presented comprehensively, transparently and coherently.”
Vice Mayor inquired immediately afterwards
Everything was discussed and set in motion within half an hour. He then also had deputy mayor Christoph Wiederkehr (Neos) informed, as he may have had to take over his representation. In addition to the various departments, only Alderman Hanke would have been on the government side.
No proof and swipes
Requested evidence is still scarce. The President’s renewed appeal: “Mr. Mayor, could you perhaps influence the fact that the requested documents are made available to us?” Ludwig: “Of course.” When asked if there might have been a better solution afterwards? Ludwig: “Perhaps I should have put more pressure on the federal government regarding the protective shield.”
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.
