Germany’s president has dissolved parliament and called a snap election seven months ahead of schedule. The decision comes after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s fractious three-way coalition collapsed, leading to a period of unusual political turmoil in the EU’s top economic power.
The national vote will determine which party will lead Germany, with Friedrich Merz’s centre-right Christian Union (CDU/CSU) bloc expected to win. However, polls indicate that Merz’s party may not achieve an absolute majority, and it is likely to form a coalition with a party to its left.
A recent deadly Christmas market attack has added to the tension, with some far-right politicians trying to capitalize on the tragedy. The president warned against “hatred and violence” eroding German society, while the interior minister condemned attempts by the far-right AfD party to exploit the tragedy.
The timing of the election could not be worse for Germany’s political gridlock, which is expected to last until late spring. The country faces challenges such as a struggling economy, industry in crisis, and rising tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
In his address, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called on Germans to “protect and strengthen our democracy” and warned of “outside influence” in the campaign. He urged respect and decency during the election campaign.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/dec/27/germany-president-dissolves-parliament-snap-election