Birgit Fischer Steps Down in Velden Ahead of 2027 Local Elections
Longtime municipal politician Birgit Fischer has announced she will not run on the SPÖ list in Velden am Wörthersee for the February 2027 local elections, as reported by heute.at. Fischer pointed to personal marginalization and exclusion within her party, including removal from internal WhatsApp groups, citing a fundamental shift in local leadership culture. Her exit follows three departures in Spittal and a planned withdrawal by Gerd Kurath in Velden, dealing a blow to Carinthian Social Democrats ahead of the ballot.
Internal Party Conflict and Accusations of Marginalization
Fischer served in the municipal council and as deputy mayor from 2003 until 2021, shaping local policy alongside former mayor Ferdinand Vouk. Upon returning to the council in early 2026, she found that critical questions and dissenting opinions were treated as attacks rather than contributions. She stated that her efforts to broaden policy discussions led to personal humiliations and exclusion. Furthermore, she accused the leadership of circulating false reports that she had resigned from all her duties voluntarily. Bürgermeisterin Margit Heissenberger rejected the allegations, describing the departure as normal pre-election list adjustments and dismissing Fischer’s claims as personal sensitivities.
SPÖ Leadership Response and Pre-Election Stakes
Ortsparteivorsitzender Markus Fantur noted that Fischer submitted a written statement on June 2 indicating she would not stand again, pointing to a party youth movement as a potential factor in her decision. Despite the public dispute, Fischer maintained that her fundamental social democratic convictions remain unchanged. The public rift arrives at a delicate moment for the Carinthian SPÖ as the party prepares for the February 2027 municipal elections.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Velden SPÖ Departures
When are the next local elections in Velden?
The next local elections in Velden am Wörthersee are scheduled for February 2027.
What specific roles did Birgit Fischer hold in the municipality?
Birgit Fischer served on the municipal council and as deputy mayor from 2003 until 2021, and she also led the local party organization.
How has the SPÖ leadership in Velden responded to the criticism?
Bürgermeisterin Margit Heissenberger dismissed the complaints as personal sensitivities and routine pre-election turnover, while Ortsparteivorsitzender Markus Fantur noted that Fischer stated in writing on June 2 that she would not run again.