NEOS Member of Parliament Krisper Leaves National Council

Decisive for Krisper's decision was that her sphere of influence was "so greatly reduced" by the participation of the Pink Party in the government, "that I no longer see any sense in my parliamentary activity," she explained to the APA. She will now, after nearly eight years, "advocate for human rights and against corruption from an independent position again."

NEOS Representative Krisper Criticizes Pink Government Participation

She is "of course aware" that compromises are needed in a coalition, said Krisper: "But with my heartfelt issues, not only are the concessions very large. There were also changes in the stance of NEOS as a governing party." This was most striking with the halt of family reunification and the monitoring of messengers. For her, "fundamentals are essential," emphasized Krisper: "How much remains of our stance for human rights and the rule of law? Do we respect the constitution or do we push the boundaries it sets for us too far? Do we make it clear that certain fundamental principles are non-negotiable and convey their value? Or do we give in to populist pressure and thereby send the wrong signals? A lot has shifted there." Additionally, the deputy club chairwoman misses the "courage for a clear counter-concept to the FPÖ."

Krisper Sees "Loyalty Conflict"

This has created a "loyalty conflict" for her, "between what I have advocated for in my previous professional life and also in recent years as a representative, and the NEOS as a governing party," as the trained lawyer explained to the APA. Therefore, she ends her activity as a representative "full of gratitude and with melancholy," "to advocate for human rights and against corruption from an independent position again and to raise my voice." She feels "also particularly obligated to the comrades-in-arms of recent years and the many people who have supported me." She described the almost eight years as a representative as a "privilege." She will remain true to her topics - "only the place changes." She wants to remain "connected" to NEOS as a member of the party and in the Extended Board.

NEOS Thank Krisper

NEOS club chairman Yannick Shetty thanked Krisper in a brief statement for her work, without addressing the points of criticism expressed by the long-standing member of parliament. "We thank Steffi Krisper for her years of commitment to a functioning rule of law and an independent judiciary. Through her dedication, Steffi has earned a special place in parliament," Shetty was quoted as saying.

Thanks also came from NEOS Secretary General Douglas Hoyos. The lawyer will remain a NEOS member and belong to the Extended Board, contributing there. She will also continue to "actively work on reforms for Austria," said Hoyos. The handover of her spokesperson role will take place in the coming weeks in close cooperation with the NEOS parliamentary club, as will the decision on who will succeed her in the National Council.

Party leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger also thanked Krisper via X for "the great years together," but like Hoyos and Shetty, did not address the criticism expressed by the departing member of parliament. She is pleased that Krisper will remain on the Extended Board, Meinl-Reisinger emphasized: "Your persistence, passion, and expertise will be missed in parliament. Your commitment to the rule of law and democracy remains important."

Reactions to Krisper's Withdrawal

The deputy club chairwoman of the Greens, Alma Zadic, praised Krisper via "Bluesky": "For me, Stephanie Krisper is one of those politicians who have a clear compass, an unwavering commitment to our fundamental rights, human rights, a corruption-free Austria, and a deep sense of justice." Her voice will be missed in parliament, said Zadic.

The Freedom Party sees the NEOS "increasingly moving towards the FDP" after Krisper's withdrawal. Krisper actively participated in the clarification of various investigation subjects in the committees of inquiry. This trait seems no longer desired by the NEOS since entering the government, said Hafenecker: "The NEOS are gradually dismantling themselves and are heading straight towards the fate of the FDP. As is known, the German Liberals have not been represented in the German Bundestag since the last federal election."

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.