In a heated final Bundestag debate before the upcoming election, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his rival Friedrich Merz exchanged sharp criticisms. Scholz defended his tenure, highlighting his leadership in Ukraine policy, while accusing Merz of inconsistency and political maneuvering. Merz, representing the CDU, criticized the government's record, portraying Scholz and his coalition partner Habeck as ineffective leaders.
The debate also centered around the potential rise of the AfD, with Scholz cautioning against a possible CDU, CSU, and AfD coalition. He accused Merz of aligning with extreme right-wing policies. Despite Merz's insistence on no collaboration with the AfD, their growing influence remains a concern.
FDP leader Christian Lindner blamed the current coalition for the AfD's rise and warned against a large coalition or a CDU-Green alliance. Meanwhile, climate policy emerged as a key issue, with Habeck urging a shift towards future-focused strategies.
Amid these exchanges, the SPD is struggling in the polls, with Scholz receiving criticism from within his party and from other political figures. The economic downturn and rising costs under the current government are contentious points, with the opposition questioning the effectiveness of Scholz's policies.
The debate highlighted Germany's pressing issues, from migration to economic challenges, with each party pushing its agenda. As election day approaches, the political landscape is fraught with tension, leaving voters to decide on the nation's future direction.
