Eder keeps options open before SPÖ leadership talks

Salzburg SPÖ leader Peter Eder says he is keeping an open mind ahead of Sunday’s talks on the party’s future, ORF reported. The state party leaders are due to meet in Vienna, first among themselves and then with federal leader and Vice-Chancellor Andreas Babler.

The outcome of the meeting is unclear. Gerhard Zeiler, who is challenging Babler for the party leadership, appealed for support in an open letter on Friday. He announced last week that he wanted to take over as party leader.

Eder, a previous critic of Babler, declined to state his position in advance. “I would like to ask for your understanding that I want to discuss this in the living room, not on the balcony, and not communicate it through the media now,” he said. “But I am convinced that together we will work towards a sensible solution and reach one on Sunday.” He added that this did not necessarily mean a new person had to lead the party.

It is also unclear whether Zeiler would become Babler’s successor. Other names being discussed include Doris Bures, the third president of the National Council, Transport Minister Peter Hanke and Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer. Another option under discussion is to have different people serve as party leader and vice-chancellor.