ISLAMABAD (PEN) : In a historic election, Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) won 28.6% of the vote, emerging as Germany’s top party. However, the result fell short of the CDU’s 30% target, leaving Merz with the difficult task of forming a coalition. Merz, 69, acknowledged the challenges ahead, telling supporters, “Let’s celebrate tonight, and in the morning, we’ll get to work.”
The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) saw an unprecedented surge, securing 20.8% of the vote, especially gaining strong support in eastern Germany. AfD co-leader Alice Weidel hinted at future ambitions, declaring, “Next time, we’ll come first.” The party’s success was fueled by a savvy social media campaign targeting younger voters.
Merz faces a tough road ahead in coalition-building. The Social Democrats (SPD) suffered their worst post-war result with just 16.4%, and Chancellor Olaf Scholz ruled out any role in coalition talks. Merz’s hopes for a two-party coalition with the SPD are dashed, and while the Greens (11.8%) are a potential partner, tensions exist, making a three-party coalition likely. This could lead to instability, echoing the challenges of Scholz’s previous government.
Voter turnout was high at 83%, reflecting public concern over economic stagnation, migration, and security. Merz’s post-election remarks signaled a shift away from the CDU’s long-standing Atlanticism, criticizing U.S. interference, especially by President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, and calling for a stronger, more independent Europe.
The AfD’s rise, fueled by economic and migration concerns, has reshaped Germany’s political landscape. Despite a strong “firewall” against cooperation with the far-right, their influence is growing.
Germany’s economic outlook remains uncertain, with fears of political paralysis if coalition talks drag on. Economists warn that delays in policy reforms could harm foreign investment and further weaken the economy.
As coalition talks continue, Germany stands at a political crossroads. Merz’s historic win may not be enough to secure stable governance unless he can navigate a deeply divided political terrain.
