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Herdecke Mayor-Elect Iris Stalzer Criticizes Media Over Attack Coverage as Swearing-In Nears

In her first extended interview since the stabbing, she faults rapid political commentary, saying some reporting crossed legal lines.

Overview

  • Stalzer told the Westfalenpost she had not expected the national and international attention and urged greater restraint.
  • She said she avoided general media while hospitalized, reading only personal messages sent via her website, email and postal mail.
  • Stalzer criticized immediate reactions from politicians, noting Chancellor Friedrich Merz called it an "abhorrent act" shortly after initial reports.
  • Police suspect her 17-year-old adoptive daughter in the 7 October knife attack, and a detention order for dangerous bodily harm remains in effect.
  • The 57-year-old plans to take office as scheduled, with her term beginning Saturday and a formal inauguration set for 4 November in Herdecke.