Sebastian Kurz: The prosecution demands a fine and a suspended sentence

Austria
Prosecution calls for probation and a fine for ex-Chancellor Sebastian Kurz

In the trial against Austria’s ex-chancellor The public prosecutor’s office has demanded a suspended sentence and a fine for Sebastian Kurz because of an alleged false statement. “Rarely has a case of false testimony been presented so clearly,” said senior public prosecutor Gregor Adamovic on Friday in his plea before the Vienna regional court. In contrast to his statements before the Ibiza committee of inquiry, the former head of government had an active influence on the appointment of his confidant Thomas Schmid to the top position at the state holding company Öbag. During his time in government, Kurz generally secured the right to veto and intervene in personnel decisions, the prosecution continued.

The fact that Kurz described his role as informed but not involved before the parliamentary committee in June 2020 was due to concerns about bad press, the senior public prosecutor continued. The now 37-year-old responded this way for PR-tactical reasons, “to avoid unwanted political and media criticism for obvious job haggling,” said Adamovic. A false statement is not a trivial offense, especially when a Federal Chancellor testifies before a parliamentary committee. Kurz did not live up to the role model function of politicians, said public prosecutor Roland Koch.

Judgment against Sebastian Kurz expected

Kurz, who was extremely popular at the time and denied the allegations, had promised the citizens a “new style” and thus signaled a farewell to widespread nepotism.

After the defense’s plea, the verdict is expected on Friday.

tkr
DPA