Ankara:Chancellor Friedrich Merz's recent defeats in state elections have sparked doubts about his political future and the stability of his coalition government. A YouGov poll revealed that 48% of Germans doubt Merz will remain in office by year's end, while 55% of respondents to an n-tv survey expressed a desire for his resignation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Wolfgang Muno, a political science professor at the University of Rostock, believes that despite mounting pressure, Merz is unlikely to resign soon. Muno noted that early federal elections would be detrimental for Merz's Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) and their coalition partner, the Social Democrats, as both parties are currently polling below their previous election results.
Speculation about a 'chancellor swap' has emerged following the CDU's significant losses in Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Berlin. However, Muno described this scenario as improbable, citing a lack of senior conservatives ready to assume leadership amid ongoing unpopular reforms. He mentioned that neither Hendrik Wuest nor Markus Soeder, both seen as potential successors, have shown interest in taking over the chancellorship.
The recent election results highlighted a surge in support for the right-wing AfD, particularly in eastern Germany. The AfD's victories were attributed not only to extremist views but also to widespread dissatisfaction with established parties. Muno emphasized that economic concerns and mistrust in political elites are driving voters toward the AfD, which has gained traction by portraying itself as an alternative to the status quo.
Muno warned that the AfD's rise poses a danger to democracy, especially in eastern states where public confidence in democratic systems is waning. He pointed out that the AfD's ideology conflicts with liberal, pluralistic values, threatening media freedom and equal rights.
To regain voter trust, Muno advised that mainstream parties need to deliver tangible benefits and foster a positive narrative to counteract the AfD's crisis-focused rhetoric. Without addressing socioeconomic concerns, the erosion of faith in democracy could intensify, leading more citizens to question its value.