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Merkel's actions are stirring up resistance against Chancellor Merz

Rivalry over leadership position ensued between the two individuals

Opposition to Chancellor Merz is being instigated by Merkel
Opposition to Chancellor Merz is being instigated by Merkel

Merkel's actions are stirring up resistance against Chancellor Merz

In a recent interview with Deutschlandfunk Kultur, former Chancellor Angela Merkel shed light on a surprising development in German politics - the apparent improvement in her relationship with CDU party member Friedrich Merz. The strained relationship between the two, which had been evident since the 2002 federal election, seems to have taken a turn for the better. This change was evident during Merkel's 70th birthday celebration in late summer, where Merz and Merkel were seen interacting very friendly with each other. The friendly interaction between the two politicians occurred after the presentation of the coalition agreement between CDU, CSU, and SPD, a day prior to Merkel's statement. This agreement marked a significant moment in German politics, as it paved the way for a new government. Merkel, in her interview, credited Merz with an 'absolute will to power,' a trait that she believes he has demonstrated. She also referred to themselves in a lighthearted manner as a 'dream team.' This development comes after Merz secured the CDU candidacy for the last federal election, a role that was seen as a potential successor to Merkel as German Chancellor. However, it was Armin Laschet who was chosen by the CDU federal board on April 19, 2021, making him the CDU/CSU union's candidate for the 2021 Bundestag election. Merkel's statement suggests that Merz has seized the opportunity presented by the coalition agreement and the recent political landscape. The former Chancellor, who is a year older than Merz, congratulated him on the victory of the Christian Democrats via SMS on the election night of February 23. The relationship between Merkel and Merz was first noted in a photo from Merkel's election as CDU chair in 2000. Despite the friendly interaction at the CDU celebration, the two politicians were known to have wanted to be the boss, according to previous statements. This new development in their relationship is sure to have a significant impact on German politics, as Merz continues to position himself as a potential successor to Merkel. Only time will tell how this relationship will unfold in the coming months and years.

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