Gerhard Zeiler, the 71-year-old media manager and former ORF head, met with Vienna SPÖ leader Michael Ludwig to discuss the party's future. Journalist Peter Pelinka reported on Puls 24 that Zeiler will officially declare his intentions over the weekend.
Zeiler has scheduled an interview with Kronen Zeitung for Sunday to clarify his role. While Andreas Babler currently leads the SPÖ, Markus Marterbauer was also considered for leadership or Vice-Chancellor, though he is reportedly facing health issues.
The move follows Zeiler's previous stance against Burgenland leader Hans Peter Doskozil, whom he vowed to leave the party over. This weekend's announcement will determine if the veteran executive seeks to challenge the current leadership of the SPÖ.