Written by Lisa Murimi
Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) has declared a “new era” after securing 29.2% of the vote in recent elections, according to provisional results.
Party leader Herbert Kickl, addressing supporters, hailed the victory as a “piece of history,” outpacing the conservative People’s Party (ÖVP) at 26.5%.
However, the FPÖ remains short of a parliamentary majority, winning 56 of the 183 seats.
With a significant voter turnout of 74.9%, the election centered on contentious issues such as migration, asylum, and the economy.
Kickl’s promise to create a “Fortress Austria” resonated with voters, especially those aged 35-59.
Despite past coalition experiences, forming a government remains a challenge, as incumbent Chancellor Karl Nehammer of the ÖVP has ruled out a partnership with Kickl, citing concerns over conspiracy theories.
The political landscape is further complicated by the FPÖ’s controversial history, including its founding by former Nazis.
Protests against the party erupted as Kickl celebrated his win, reflecting deep divisions in Austrian society.
As the FPÖ seeks to navigate coalition talks, political analysts suggest that President Alexander Van der Bellen may hesitate to grant Kickl a mandate, raising questions about the future of Austria’s governance.
