Research: Walter Rosenkranz (Chairman of the Pilnacek Committee)

The new referee in the Archive of Silence.

Walter Rosenkranz (FPÖ) has been President of the National Council since 2024 and, in this function, chairs the Pilnacek Committee of Inquiry (2025–2026). This places him in direct contrast to his predecessor, Wolfgang Sobotka (ÖVP), who is often at the center of the allegations in this committee.

---

Significance for "The Horten Mystery"

Rosenkranz functions as the "uncomfortable master of ceremonies" in our mockumentary.

• The Satirical Antagonist: He is the one who cuts off Sobotka's speech or plays the "secret tapes" in the plenary hall.
• Acoustic Clash: While Sobotka stands for the "piano playing of power," Rosenkranz stands for the "playing of the truth" (or what the FPÖ considers it to be). In Part 4 of our screenplay, we use this clash for the grand finale in parliament.

---

Sources: Protocols of the National Council (2026), reporting on the committee inquiries (OE24, ORF, heute.at).