Gewessler applies for Green Party leadership
"I'm doing it. I'm running for the position of federal spokesperson for the Greens," she said in a video message distributed via social media on Wednesday. The former Climate Protection Minister has long been considered a favorite for the position, which the party will vote on June 29. On Wednesday, Kogler assured her of his support, as did potential competitors Alma Zadić and Stefan Kaineder.
Federal spokesperson Kogler had repeatedly named Gewessler as one of three favorites to succeed him, alongside Zadić and Upper Austrian state spokesperson Kaineder. However, following Gewessler's message, both Zadić and Kaineder effectively withdrew their candidacies. Zadić expressed her delight at Gewessler's bold step via social media and emphasized: "You have my support - every step of the way!" Kaineder's statement was similar.
Statement from Leonore Gewessler
In her brief statement, which had been announced the day before, Gewessler promised "a green party alongside the people" with her at the helm. She wants to fight for a better world, and the joint saving of the world is also the concern of the Greens.
"Our children should inherit an intact planet," she continued, calling for courage, even though the Ukraine war, the rise of right-wing extremists, the economic downturn, environmental disasters, and "Trump, Musk, Kickl" create the feeling that everything is going downhill.
The Greens have also made mistakes and lost elections. "I take that seriously - and I want to do better," said Gewessler.
The election of the new Green leader will take place on June 29 at a federal congress in Vienna. The application period begins eight weeks before the federal congress, on May 4, and ends four weeks before on June 1. Counter-candidacies are not excluded, but prominent challengers would be a surprise given the current unanimity.
Federal spokesperson Kogler stood behind Gewessler shortly after the candidacy video was released. "You have my support," he posted, with a green heart emoji: "Thank you for taking this step and thank you for being ready to take our Greens to the next level." He was "very, very happy" about her candidacy. Gewessler does not shy away from any challenge, no matter how big, and reliably fights for a better world: "I bow - to your determination, your clarity, and your competence."
Other Greens also unanimously positioned themselves behind Gewessler, such as Secretary General Olga Voglauer, who was "incredibly" happy, and club leader Sigrid Maurer, who vowed to fight by her side. The Green Vienna election top candidate Judith Pühringer spoke of good news for all people in Austria. Kaineder emphasized in writing that Gewessler is "exactly the right woman for this position." He himself wants to focus on the state election in Upper Austria in 2027 but will also run again for the Green federal board.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.