The former Austrian chancellor, Sebastian Kurz, has decided to withdraw entirely from Austrian politics after being embroiled in a corruption scandal. Kurz said on Thursday morning (2 December) that the birth of his new born son was the deciding factor . He confirmed this news at a press conference following reports about it in Austrian media. A court case is being prepared against Kurz.
"Recently, my enthusiasm for politics has waned", he said. "I had to deal with suspicions, accusations and investigations. That gnaws at you", he said.
"I am handing over the party leadership of the Austrian People's Party with immediate effect, and will hand over all my other political functions in an orderly manner in the coming week", Kurz said.
Kurz was forced to resign as Austrian chancellor in October after coming under fire in a corruption scandal.
