Austria: Sebastian Kurz retires from political life

Former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz during his speech announcing that he is resigning from all his political functions, in Vienna, on December 2, 2021. REUTERS - LISI NIESNER

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1 min

The former Austrian chancellor announced this Thursday, December 2 at noon: he is resigning from the presidency of the conservative party and of his parliamentary group.

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With our correspondent in Vienna, 

The announcement surprised more than one in Austria: Sebastian Kurz is retiring from political life.

He, who has been leader of the Conservative Party since 2017, who has been Chancellor twice, decided, at the age of 35, to end more than 10 years of his political career.

During a speech, he affirmed to have " 

 " for his country, but he now wishes to reorient himself professionally and especially to devote himself to his family, his first son having been born a few days ago.

"I am neither a saint nor a criminal"

His enthusiasm for politics has weakened in particular, he says, because in recent weeks he has had to constantly justify himself concerning the

which weighs on him and which had already led him to

from his post of chancellor in October. latest.

"

" he said, saying he looked forward to being able to prove his innocence in court.

If he has not named his successor at the head of the conservative party, the Austrian press mentions the name of the current Minister of the Interior Karl Nehammer.

Discussions in this direction should be held this week.

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• Austria

• Sebastian kurz

• Corruption