“In difficult times like these, stability requires a capable government and a reliable majority in parliament,” Steinmeier said, explaining his decision in Berlin.
He added that talks with party leaders revealed no alternative majority for a new coalition, making snap elections “the best way forward” for the country.
The move follows the breakup of Scholz’s coalition of the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens, and Free Democrats (FDP), which collapsed in early November after nearly three years in power.
As mandated by Germany’s Basic Law, once the chancellor is unable to secure a vote of confidence, the president may dissolve the Bundestag, triggering elections within 60 days.
Steinmeier affirmed that lawmakers would continue parliamentary work until the new Bundestag is formed, stressing that German democracy “remains functional, even during transitional periods.”
He also cited urgent tasks ahead for the incoming government, including challenges related to economic uncertainty, conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, immigration policy, and climate change measures.
(jh)
Source: PAP