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Election Date Set After Coalition Collapse
Germany will hold snap elections on 23 February 2024. The decision follows the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s ruling coalition, according to domestic media reports. Weeks of political instability and internal conflicts left the coalition unable to govern effectively, prompting the call for early elections.

The crisis escalated last week as divisions within Scholz’s coalition, which includes the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and smaller partners, became more apparent. Initially, Scholz proposed a no-confidence vote for 15 January, with elections to follow in March. However, opposition leader Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) rejected this timeline, arguing that Scholz’s government had lost its Bundestag majority and could no longer govern.

After negotiations, Scholz and Merz reached a new agreement. The no-confidence vote will now take place on 16 December, with elections to follow on 23 February. SPD and CDU leaders reportedly finalized this decision on Tuesday. A special parliamentary session later this week will discuss the vote’s details and outline the next steps in the electoral process.

The upcoming elections come earlier than expected, as Germany’s next federal elections were originally scheduled for late 2025. Mounting frustration with the government’s inability to push through key reforms accelerated the decision. Critics blame the coalition’s failure to maintain unity for the political breakdown, and calls for fresh leadership have grown louder in recent weeks.

Government Criticism and Campaign Ahead
Chancellor Scholz’s government has faced criticism over its handling of the economy, the ongoing energy crisis, and strained relations within the European Union. The coalition’s inability to maintain unity and deliver on major policy goals has fueled demands for new leadership. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz and the CDU have called for snap elections, arguing that Germany needs stable leadership to tackle the country’s growing challenges.

The early election raises questions about Germany’s political future. The CDU hopes to regain power after years in opposition, while smaller parties could play a key role in shaping the next coalition. Analysts predict the election could lead to a more fragmented Bundestag, forcing new political alliances.

With the election set for February, Germany faces intense political uncertainty. Political parties will soon launch their campaigns, and voter sentiment toward Scholz’s government collapse will be a major focus. The February election is expected to be one of the most closely watched events in German politics in recent years, with significant implications for the country’s domestic and European leadership.