Former CDU chief secretary Ruprecht Polenz interprets Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s statement that he expects to stay in office “for a longer time” as a clear signal to any potential rivals. Polenz told the Friday edition of the “Rheinische Post” that now is not the moment for a display of “crown princes”.
He added that, given the chatter within the Union, it is appropriate to voice his concerns before the upcoming CDU party conference. Polenz said Germany, especially in light of foreign‑policy threats, needs a stable government. “Speculation about what will happen three years after the next federal election is completely misplaced. Friedrich Merz wants to choke off that speculation” he remarked.
At a campaign event in Trier on Wednesday evening, 70‑year‑old Merz announced, “I still plan to stay in office for a longer time”. He also noted that his father will have turned 102 in January.