Story perspectives

Mayor Accepts Culture Senator Resignation Over €2.6M Funding Scandal

4/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mayor Kai Wegner accepted Culture Senator Sarah Wedl-Wilson’s resignation after a state audit exposed irregular funding.
The audit found €2.6 million arbitrarily given to 13 anti-antisemitism projects, including €390,000 to the Zera Institute, without proper vetting.
Wedl-Wilson had earlier dismissed State Secretary Oliver Friederici, the whistle-blower on the grants.
Wegner must now appoint a successor to manage the department’s €110 million budget for the final five months.

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Story summary

Mayor Kai Wegner accepted Culture Senator Sarah Wedl-Wilson’s resignation after a state audit exposed irregular funding.
The audit found €2.6 million arbitrarily given to 13 anti-antisemitism projects, including €390,000 to the Zera Institute, without proper vetting.
Wedl-Wilson had earlier dismissed State Secretary Oliver Friederici, the whistle-blower on the grants.
Wegner must now appoint a successor to manage the department’s €110 million budget for the final five months.