After being banned from entering

Resignation of the head of the village: new elections are now due

(Bild: Christian Schulter)

The entry ban against an ÖVP mayor turns municipal politics on its head. The time limit begins to run

The case of the mayor of Rudersdorf is spreading far and wide. After a sensational argument with his wife in a pub on Holy Saturday, the police reportedly banned him from entering and approaching her. As sorry as the ÖVP local leader is about the incident, after careful consideration he had no choice but to announce his resignation.

New election within six weeks
"The mayor called me on Thursday evening and informed me of his decision," confirmed Deputy Mayor David Venus (SPÖ). As soon as the resignation is received in writing, the declaration will be submitted to the municipal office. According to the ordinance, the provincial government must announce the election of a new mayor within six weeks. "There must be at least 12 weeks between the deadline and election day," it says.

Consequences drawn
The FPÖ's criticism of the ÖVP for having "covered up" the case is rejected in the strongest possible terms: "We have dealt with the matter transparently and without delay. The consequence is resignation."

Another politician in the sights
In the course of the heated debate, another case in southern Burgenland was reopened. In this case, an SPÖ deputy mayor had already been banned from entering the town in January. Divorce proceedings are underway. "Allegations that the man was banned from entering the premises several times are not true," clarifies the provincial police directorate following fake reports.

Deputy mayor withdraws
In a statement from the SPÖ, it is stated that, according to the deputy mayor concerned, the case is about ongoing divorce proceedings in which, unfortunately, charges have been filed by both parties. There are therefore facts that have not yet been finally clarified. In order to protect the family, the deputy mayor concerned is withdrawing from local politics with immediate effect.