On Saturday evening, the coalition negotiations between the ÖVP and SPÖ ultimately failed. There are several scenarios in the room now about how things could proceed. Negotiations between the FPÖ and ÖVP or new elections would be conceivable.
The question of whether the gate to the FPÖ will open after Nehammer’s announced resignation is still unclear. Nehammer had ruled out entering into a coalition with the FPÖ led by party leader Herbert Kickl. Parts of his party, especially from the business world, would not be averse to the blue option. The SPÖ had always ruled out cooperation with the Freedom Party.
The FPÖ itself initially remained cautious on Saturday evening. Nehammer, Babler and Van der Bellen “failed”, said boss Herbert Kickl. If a viable government is not established, new elections will be held, which will take some lead time.
For example, a tender by regulation in the Federal Government Gazette and a decision to dissolve the National Council are necessary. A simple majority is sufficient for dissolution. In order for the term of office to end early, a statement from President Alexander van der Bellen, a signature from the Chancellor and an announcement in the Federal Government Gazette are required.
Additional deadlines must also be met, such as for appointing district election officials and evaluators and for collecting statements of support from the smaller parties.
It is therefore difficult to set a new election date before May. For elections on April 27, the deadline would be February 4, for elections on the first weekend of May this would be February 11. The Council of Ministers should adopt the arrangement with the election date no later than these days. The National Council should dissolve even sooner.
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.
