FPO Emerges Victorious in Austria’s Parliamentary Elections Amid Coalition Uncertainties

The far-right Freedom Party (FPO), led by Herbert Kickl, won Austria's parliamentary election, securing 29.2% of the vote, based on half of the ballots counted. The FPO must find a coalition partner, potentially with the ruling Austrian People's Party (OVP), to form a stable government. President Alexander Van der Bellen's reservations about Kickl's leadership could influence the coalition formation process.

The far-right Freedom Party (FPO), under the leadership of Herbert Kickl, claimed victory in Austria's parliamentary elections on Sunday, initial projections revealed.

With 50.2% of the ballots counted, the FPO is projected to have secured 29.2% of the vote. However, the party falls short of an absolute majority, necessitating a coalition to establish a stable government should President Alexander Van der Bellen invite it to do so.

The ruling conservative Austrian People's Party (OVP) is the only party open to a coalition with the FPO. However, OVP's leader, Chancellor Karl Nehammer, has dismissed the idea of forming a government with Kickl, adding complexity to the potential coalition. The political landscape remains uncertain as Van der Bellen's reservations could influence coalition outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)