Vienna SPÖ women demand mayor distance himself from Ruck's statements

Vienna's SPÖ women's organization has formally requested Mayor Michael Ludwig to publicly disavow controversial remarks made by Walter Ruck, a former prominent figure in the city's economic circles. The women's group expressed their dissatisfaction with Ludwig's prior defense of Ruck, who has since been expelled from the ÖVP party.

According to reports, the SPÖ women sent a letter to Ludwig detailing their concerns. While the letter's exact contents have not been confirmed by all parties, several SPÖ officials cited in the press indicated a strong desire within the city party for the mayor to take a more decisive stance against Ruck's statements. The letter was reportedly signed by key members of the SPÖ Women's Presidency, including Marina Hanke, Kathrin Gaál, Elke Hanel-Torsch, Petra Bayr, and Saya Ahmad.

Ruck's remarks, made during a private conversation that was later leaked to the media, were reportedly unflattering towards Vienna's finance councilor, Barbara Novak (SPÖ). The conversation also involved two other SPÖ officials. Following the leak, Ludwig stated he was not privy to the exact wording of the conversations and knew Ruck as a trustworthy counterpart. After Ruck's resignation, Ludwig issued a statement thanking him for his long-standing cooperation.

Ludwig's office has indicated that a personal meeting with the SPÖ Women's Presidency is planned after the holiday period to discuss the matter further. The situation highlights internal party dynamics and the pressure on leadership to address controversial statements made by public figures.