Germany calls early elections amid political turmoil
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier dissolved the Bundestag on Friday and called for early parliamentary elections on 23 February 2025. He thereby acceded to the request of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose minority government failed to receive a vote of confidence on 16 December.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier dissolved the Bundestag on Friday. - Steinmeier stated in Berlin, explaining his decision, a government capable of action and a credible majority in parliament are essential, especially in such challenging times as these.
He called for early parliamentary elections on 23 February 2025.
German media describe this as a "historic moment".
Bundestag did not grant Scholz a vote of confidence
On 16 December, the Bundestag refused to grant German Chancellor Olaf Scholz a vote of confidence. The parliamentary decision, which aligned with the head of government's intentions, paved the way for early elections.
In a recorded vote, 349 deputies opposed the request for a vote of confidence, while 207 supported the chancellor; 116 abstained. Scholz then announced he would immediately request German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to dissolve the Bundestag. The President had until 6 January to decide.
Steinmeier had already indicated his willingness to end the parliamentary term early. The expedited elections will occur seven months ahead of the originally scheduled date.
The governing coalition led by Scholz, comprising the SPD, Greens, and FDP, lost its majority following the resignation of Finance Minister Christian Lindner from the FDP in November. They had held power since December 2021.
Source: PAP, Wirtualna Polska
