May 6, 2025, will be remembered in German politics as a day of uncertainty and disruption. Friedrich Merz, a seasoned and ideologically conservative leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), failed to secure a majority in the first round of the chancellor election despite having a clear parliamentary advantage. This was not merely an electoral setback; it reflected a deeper crisis of unity, trust, and leadership within German politics.
At a time when the CDU/CSU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) jointly held 328 seats, Merz’s failure to garner even 316 votes, falling short with only 310 , exposed the fragility of the coalition. This raises critical questions about Merz’s ability to unite the parties and provide the stable leadership Germany needs. Is this the beginning of a strong chancellorship, or the start of a prolonged political crisis?
Although Merz eventually secured the position in the second round with 325 votes, the nature of that victory was symbolic, not solid. The visible tension within the coalition, disagreements over policy, and Merz’s firm ideological stance suggest that his government rests on shaky ground.
Merz’s ascent to the chancellorship is not just a political victory; it marks a shift in the German political temperament. His hardline positions, particularly on immigration, EU policy, and fiscal reform , may resonate with a certain segment of the electorate, but they also risk undermining broader social cohesion. At this moment, Germany needs a leader who can bridge divides, not deepen them.
Another concerning trend is the significant rise of the far-right party AfD, which secured a record 20.8% of the vote in recent elections. This reflects public discontent and growing frustration with the existing system. If Merz’s government fails to seriously address this unrest, the political ground could soon shift dramatically beneath his feet.
Merz must look beyond appeasing his party and coalition partners and instead focus on implementing policies rooted in balance, transparency, and inclusivity. He must win public trust not through rhetoric, but through wisdom and results , or today’s victory may quickly turn into tomorrow’s defeat.
German politics has entered a new phase, it’s now up to Merz to decide whether this era will be one of stability and progress, or a chapter marked by discord and disappointment.
Altaf Choudhry
06.05.2025
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