For the first time in Germany, a female president may be elected
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz intends to nominate a female candidate for the post of the country's next president. His decision was also supported by the coalition partner in the government, the Social Democratic Party. In the 77-year history of the Federal Republic of Germany, there has not yet been a female president.
First female president may be elected in Germany
The Chancellor intends to propose a woman representing centrist political forces as a single candidate to the party he leads.
"I have made a firm decision that it must be a woman," agencies quoted Merz as saying at the meeting.
According to reports, the Chancellor did not name a specific person at the meeting. He is expected to present the candidate before the meeting of the Presidium of the Christian Democratic Union on November 9.
Social Democrats approved Merz's decision
The Social Democratic Party of Germany, a partner of the Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union bloc in the ruling coalition, viewed Merz's decision positively.
Dirk Wiese, the parliamentary secretary of the party's faction in the Bundestag, said in an interview with the Rheinische Post newspaper that he was looking forward to the Chancellor's proposal with interest.
Wiese emphasized that he has been in favor of a woman holding the highest office in the state for several months. He stated that the time has long come to make such a decision.
"I am glad that Friedrich Merz now recognizes this necessity as well," the politician said.
Merkel is also in favor of electing a female president
Earlier, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel also said that a woman should replace current President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
"The Federal Republic of Germany has a 77-year history, but there has never been a female federal president," Merkel said.
In her view, everyone should ask themselves whether the time has come for this.
The names of four female politicians are being mentioned among potential candidates
The leader of the Christian Social Union, Markus Söder, has been supporting the candidacy of Ilse Aigner for several months. Aigner serves as the President of the Bavarian Parliament - the Landtag.