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Germany news: Merz to nominate Aigner for president
Friedrich Merz plans to nominate Ilse Aigner as Germany’s next federal president, potentially making her the first woman to hold the largely ceremonial office. Her candidacy matters as President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s term ends early next year and parties consider a joint successor.
Aigner is president of Bavaria’s state parliament and a member of the conservative CSU. Merz is expected to formally propose her on Monday, ahead of the presidential election on 30 January; representatives of the SPD and Greens have already voiced support. The article also rounds up other Germany-related stories, including a Moscow plaque for former East German spy Markus Wolf, a missing teenager’s death under investigation, and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer’s tendon injury.
In short
- Merz plans to nominate Ilse Aigner for Germany’s presidency.
- Aigner could become the first woman in the role.
- The election is scheduled for 30 January.
Explained simply
Germany’s federal president is the country’s head of state, but the role is largely ceremonial. The president represents Germany at home and abroad, signs laws and appoints the chancellor after parliament has elected one.
The president is chosen by a special assembly of federal and state politicians, rather than directly by voters. Ilse Aigner is a member of Bavaria’s conservative CSU party and leads the state parliament; the CSU is allied with Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) at national level.
The office is held for five years, and the president can serve a second term. A woman has not yet held the post, so Aigner’s possible selection has drawn attention as parties discuss who should succeed Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
Europe Government Politics World