In the “ZiB 2” interview, Sebastian Kurz exchanged blows with Armin Wolf about the statements that led to the guilty verdict. In the dispute over the exact wording, Kurz offered a bet, which the moderator did not accept. But the former ÖVP chancellor would clearly have lost.
Friday’s non-legal judgment came in response to statements made before the Ibiza-U Commission in June 2020. When Wolf wanted to read the minutes of the investigation in question, Kurz accused him of having “copied incorrectly.” “One thousand percent, Mr. Wolf, we bet it’s wrong,” the ex-chancellor asks the moderator several times, holding out his hand so he can strike.
Bet not accepted
Wolf did not strike – which would have been an odd novelty in a television interview – but explained: “You are more than welcome to bet with me.” Officially, however, he did not accept the bet; after all, no stake had been determined.
In any case, the ORF journalist pointed out that he had only downloaded the newspaper from the parliamentary website shortly before the broadcast. In the ensuing banter, Kurz tried to excuse himself with “You have your perception, I have mine,” which Wolf did not accept. He in turn accused the ex-chancellor of having “copied together” something, which Kurz denied while simultaneously admitting: “We apparently have exactly the same thing.”
“Should have bet”
Anyone can see for themselves what is actually in the stenographic minutes of 24 June 2020 by viewing the relevant document on Parliament’s website. Wolf pointed this out shortly after the broadcast. And said: “Maybe I should have bet after all” (see X-post below).
When asked twice by NEOS MP Stephanie Krisper whether he had a general idea of the composition of the ÖBAG supervisory board and whether he was involved, Kurz only gave a general answer at the time (see below). The then Chancellor also responded evasively to further questions about the appointment of the commissioners.
Judge: Kurz downplayed his role
Judge Michael Radasztics explained Kurz’s guilty verdict on Friday, saying the ÖVP politician gave the general impression that he essentially had nothing to do with it. However, statements in the evidentiary proceedings would have painted a different picture. Kurz was acquitted on two other counts.
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.
