Aindling Mayor Faces Criticism Over Private WhatsApp Group Use During Campaign Season

Aindling’s Mayor Gertrud Hitzler is facing scrutiny after a local council member, Josef Settele, criticized her use of a private WhatsApp group, named “Markt Aindling,” for sharing personal updates and, subsequently, political materials. The controversy centers on the posting of a campaign flyer for the CSU and Free Voters’ Association within the group.

Details of the Controversy

Mayor Hitzler uses the WhatsApp group, linked to her private mobile number, to share updates about her life and happenings in Aindling. However, the inclusion of political advertising within the group prompted a strong reaction from Josef Settele, who as well serves as a member of the Aichach-Friedberg district council for the AfD party. According to the Donaukurier, Settele believes Hitzler misused a community channel for political purposes.

Political Background of Involved Parties

Gertrud Hitzler is the First Mayor of Aindling and also a member of the Kreisrat (district council). The Aindling municipal website lists the current composition of the Marktgemeinderat (municipal council) by faction. Josef Settele represents the Perspektive (Wähler- und Bürgerliste) faction.

Recent Local Developments

Aindling is also currently exploring the implementation of a district heating network, with plans for an initial 45 connections. The Augsburger Allgemeine reports that the project aims to supply heat to the Marktanger area and the surrounding AWO-Heim using wood chips. Settele reportedly described the project as a “good approach.”

Previous Disputes

This is not the first instance of disagreement between Hitzler and Settele. The Donaukurier reported in October 2024 that Settele faced questions regarding whether he acted without authorization when repairing a field path, a matter disputed by Hitzler.

The situation highlights the evolving challenges of political communication in the digital age and the potential for conflict when personal and political spheres overlap on social media platforms.