Conservatives claim victory: Merz likely next German chancellor
The conservative CDU/CSU party has emerged victorious in the parliamentary elections in Germany. The leader of the party, Friedrich Merz, is the primary candidate for chancellor. Throughout the campaign, the prospective head of the German government advocated for closing the country's borders and held particular views on Ukraine and Poland.
The CDU/CSU, commonly referred to as the "Union," secured 28.52% of all valid votes, translating into 208 seats.
The party is likely to govern in a so-called grand coalition. The government, with CDU/CSU at the helm, would also include the SPD Social Democrats. The leader of the German conservatives, Friedrich Merz, could become the chancellor.
Who is the potential head of the German government? Born in 1955, Merz is a professional lawyer with over 50 years of experience in politics. He previously clashed with the former chancellor of Germany and stepped away from political activity in 2009.
From 2009 to 2018, the CDU/CSU leader worked with several private companies, including AXA and Commerzbank. He also played a role in helping Borussia Dortmund avoid bankruptcy. He returned to politics in 2018 when Angela Merkel announced she would not continue as the leader of the German conservative faction. In 2021, Merz assumed the leadership of the party.
A conservative liberal at the helm of the German government. Here's what he said about Ukraine
Friedrich Merz is recognised for his conservative-liberal stance. He supports tax deregulation and reducing social benefits. During the campaign, he declared his intention to close Germany's borders to illegal immigrants. This stance contrasted with Angela Merkel's policies.
Merz is also known for his pro-Ukrainian views. During the war, he visited Kyiv four times. He criticised Olaf Scholz for delaying military equipment deliveries to Ukraine and supported sending Taurus missiles to the Ukrainian armed forces.
The CDU/CSU leader also believes Germany should enhance relations with Poland. His first foreign visit could be to Warsaw. In an interview with "Bild am Sonntag," Merz emphasised the necessity of revitalising the initiative of the Weimar Triangle, which includes Poland, Germany, and France.
The most urgent task in Europe is repairing the relations between Germany and Poland and France. I am keen to sign a Polish-German friendship treaty to strengthen our ties, stated Merz during the election campaign.
The future chancellor's wife is a judge, and the couple has three children. Merz is noted for his height, standing at almost 2 metres tall.
