German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Friday announced the dissolution of parliament and called for new elections on February 23, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition government.

The decision comes after Scholz’s governing three-party coalition unraveled on November 6, triggered by his dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner over disagreements on measures to revive Germany’s stagnant economy. The coalition’s breakdown left Scholz leading a minority government, which subsequently lost a confidence vote on December 16.

In his announcement, Steinmeier emphasized the importance of forming a stable government during challenging times.

“It is precisely in difficult times like these that stability requires a government capable of taking action and a reliable majority in parliament,” Steinmeier said in Berlin. “Therefore, I am convinced that for the good of our country, new elections are the right way.”

After consulting with party leaders, Steinmeier concluded that no party could command a majority in the current Bundestag, necessitating fresh elections.

Under Germany’s post-World War II constitution, the Bundestag cannot dissolve itself, leaving the decision to the president. Once parliament is dissolved, elections must be held within 60 days.

Major political parties agreed earlier to schedule the election for February 23, seven months earlier than originally planned. Steinmeier’s announcement sets the stage for a highly anticipated vote, as Germany faces pressing challenges including economic stagnation and political uncertainty.

The collapse of Scholz’s coalition and the subsequent loss of the confidence vote have highlighted divisions within Germany’s political landscape. The upcoming election is expected to be a pivotal moment, as parties vie to form a new government capable of addressing the nation’s economic and political challenges.

With Germany at a crossroads, the February 23 elections will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, as they determine the country’s leadership and direction in the years ahead. (ILKHA)