The Austrian far-right Freedom Party (FPO) leader, Herbert Kickl, is confident of winning the upcoming parliamentary election, despite a neck-and-neck race, driven by anti-immigration sentiments and economic concerns.
The FPO has held a steady lead in polls due to frustrations over inflation and economic challenges, but the conservative Austrian People’s Party (OVP), led by Chancellor Karl Nehammer, has closed the gap, positioning Nehammer as a stable choice against Kickl’s polarizing image.
Kickl, in a populist speech before the election, expressed confidence in a victory, vowing to put people ahead of the system. He emphasized the FPO’s potential first-time win in a parliamentary election, outlining strict immigration measures to protect the country.
While both parties share some policies, Nehammer has distanced himself from Kickl’s extremism, considering potential coalitions after the election. Winning parties will require coalition partners to form a stable government, with various alliances on the table.
As Austria anticipates a shift in leadership, the election outcome remains uncertain, balancing ideological differences and the quest for stability in governance.