“The decision was not easy for me,” said Michael Lindner when he appeared in front of the press at 2 p.m. to announce his withdrawal. As reported, this had been rumored since Friday evening.
It will be a farewell in installments, Lindner will remain state party leader until the end of the month, and he will continue to serve as state councilor until the successor is clarified.
Former minister Alois Stöger, a political veteran, will take over the party on an interim basis and coordinate the search for a successor. The state party committees will meet on Monday and a public statement has been announced for lunchtime. It is unclear whether the future head of the state party will also take over the office of state councilor. A separation of offices is currently not ruled out in party circles, but not all comrades approve of it. The future state council does not have to be part of the state parliament; party membership is a prerequisite for party leadership.
Image: TEAM FOTOKERSCHI / KERSCHBAUMMAYR (TEAM FOTOKERSCHI / KERSCHBAUMMAYR)
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Image: TEAM FOTOKERSCHI / KERSCHBAUMMAYR (TEAM FOTOKERSCHI / KERSCHBAUMMAYR)
Lindner’s move surprised people – not only within his own party, but also among his political competitors. The search for a successor shouldn’t be all that easy. Some have already declined, including state manager Florian Koppler and, reportedly, National Council member Eva-Maria Holzleitner.
Lindner himself said today that the step had been carefully considered; he had been thinking about leaving the political stage since January. Reading the book “The Anger That Remains” provided a significant impetus for this.
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The Mühlviertler today cited his family as the reason for the decision, saying that the time with his two sons – Samuel and Thomas – was irretrievable. “I take my responsibility as a father very seriously,” said Lindner in an emotional statement, saying that his family life had suffered as a result of his political involvement.
“Now is the right moment,” Lindner is convinced – not only for himself, but also for the party. Withdrawing before the National Council election was out of the question for him.
He concluded his statement with words of thanks – addressed to his wife Alexandra and the family, as well as his political companions. He is proud that, together with his team, they have succeeded in filling up old rifts in the party and laying new ground for cooperation. “It was an honor,” said Lindner before leaving the room. No questions were allowed.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Michael. We’ve just heard about your announcement regarding your withdrawal as state party leader. Can you walk us through what led to this decision?
**Michael Lindner:** Thank you for having me. It was a very tough decision, and not one that I made lightly. In recent weeks, I felt that a change in leadership could benefit the party and its direction moving forward. It’s been a process of reflection, and I believe it’s the right time for new leadership to step in.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that your departure will happen in phases. Can you elaborate on how the transition will unfold?
**Michael Lindner:** Yes, of course. I will remain the state party leader until the end of this month, during which time I’ll ensure a smooth transition. After that, I will continue in my role as state councilor until a successor is appointed. It’s important to me that the party and its members are supported during this change.
**Interviewer:** As you step down, former minister Alois Stöger will take over on an interim basis. What are your thoughts on him stepping into this role?
**Michael Lindner:** Alois is a seasoned politician with extensive experience. I trust him to guide the party during this interim period, and I believe he will do a great job coordinating the search for my successor.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be some discussion about whether the future head of the state party will also hold the office of state councilor. What are your views on this separation of powers within the party?
**Michael Lindner:** I think it’s a valid conversation to have. Separating the roles could allow for focused leadership in both domains. However, it’s essential for party members to weigh in on this decision, and I trust that the upcoming state party committees will address it thoughtfully.
**Interviewer:** as you prepare to hand over the reins, what is your message to the party members?
**Michael Lindner:** I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the members for their support and commitment. Change can be challenging, but I am confident that with collaboration and unity, the party will continue to thrive and serve the needs of our constituents effectively.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Michael, for sharing your thoughts, and we wish you all the best in your next steps.
**Michael Lindner:** Thank you!
