Vienna Mayor and former Chamber President face abuse of office complaint

The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office is reviewing a criminal complaint filed by the FPÖ Wien against Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig and former Vienna Chamber of Commerce President Walter Ruck for alleged abuse of office.

The complaint follows the emergence of the ‘Ludwig-Ruck-Files,’ which include audio recordings and transcripts. One specific recording involves Ruck discussing the construction of the Meidling Accident Hospital (AUVA). The FPÖ is investigating whether Ruck’s involvement influenced or accelerated administrative and permit procedures, specifically regarding a document referred to as a ‘one-pager’ (Einseiter).

Prior to the legal complaint, Ruck faced scrutiny following media reports of transcripts in which he allegedly discussed influencing political appointments and personnel lists within Vienna and the ÖVP. The FPÖ has called for the full audio recording to be handed over to the Economic and Corruption Prosecutor's Office and has requested a special session of the Vienna City Council to address the matter.