Graz FPÖ leader Axel Kassegger quits politics before surgery

Graz FPÖ leader Axel Kassegger is leaving politics with immediate effect for health reasons, ORF reported on Thursday.

Kassegger said he was about to undergo a major operation next week and had decided to devote his full attention and energy to his recovery. He also thanked his family for supporting him.

He is giving up his National Council seat, which he has held for the Freedom Party since 2013, as well as his positions as president of the Freedom Party Education Institute and leader of the FPÖ in Graz.