Not everything disappears in the fog of the mayor of Frankfurt's strategy of confusion and uncertainty.

There are facts about the failure of Peter Feldmann (SPD) that have nothing to do with a presumption of innocence.

In view of the mayor's disturbing statements, it is worthwhile for the citizens and the city council to have these facts ready when it is said that too much is being asked of Feldmann if his immediate resignation is recommended.

Because this step would be better than any deselection procedure, also for him, by the way.

These facts are: Peter Feldmann has to endure being in the public eye as Lord Mayor and thus also subject to public criticism.

It was his decision to seek public office.

And in his office, special demands apply to the highest representative of the city of Frankfurt, which go beyond what one would expect from an ordinary citizen.

Feldmann, however, has to answer for himself in a criminal case from October, which will prevent him from fulfilling the obligations of his office to the required extent.

This has been the case since the indictment became known, even more so since it was admitted, but even more so once the trial has begun.

What harms the image of Frankfurt

The procedure will prevent him from speaking during the opening of the book fair on day one.

Instead, the reporting that day will focus on Feldmann's trial.

This damages the image of the city in the world.

It is the opposite of what the mayor is there for professionally.

It is already impossible for Feldmann to moderate political processes and build bridges in order to advance plans for the good of the city.

Even his own party has been asking him to withdraw for some time, and the other parties no longer have any confidence in Feldmann.

Confidence is also shaken because even the promises made publicly about his supposed or actual withdrawal a few days later are no longer valid, despite sincere assurances.

Feldmann is isolated in the city, has ruined the reception for the Frankfurt Eintracht Cup Heroes and even the flight to the game for some airline employees.

These are facts, not allegations.

What you have to expect against this background: that a mayor behaves responsibly towards “his” city and not just acts selfishly in his own interest.

But that is the only point here where the facts are unfortunately different.