Berlin, May 6 (EFE).– Conservative leader Friedrich Merz was sworn in as ’s new chancellor on Tuesday after securing an absolute majority in a second-round vote in the Bundestag, ending a dramatic leadership ime with 325 votes in favor.
With his right hand raised and standing before the original German Basic Law, held by Bundestag President Julia Klöckner in white gloves, Merz took the constitutional oath of office.
“I swear that I will devote my strength to the welfare of the German people, increase its benefit, avert harm from it, uphold and defend the Basic Law and the laws of the Federation, conscientiously fulfill my duties, and do justice to everyone. So help me God,” he said, taking the oath.
The swearing-in came shortly after President Frank-Walter Steinmeier formally appointed Merz, the chairman of the center-right Christian Democratic Union (CDU), at Bellevue Palace.
Later in the day, outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz was scheduled to officially hand over power at the Chancellery.
Merz’s confirmation followed an earlier failed attempt the same day, when he fell six votes short of the required majority in the lower house, an unprecedented event in the republic’s history.
His successful second bid ed with 325 votes in favor, 289 against, one abstention, and three invalid ballots in the 630-member house.
“I thank you for your trust and accept the election,” Merz said before formally taking office as the tenth Chancellor of the Federal Republic of .
The conservative bloc formed by Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), has 208 seats, while the Social Democrats have 120.
The surprise shortfall in the first round came despite a presumed 12-vote cushion from the conservative bloc and Social Democrats, highlighting divisions within the governing alliance. EFE
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