Scholz Calls for Confidence Vote: Germany on Course for Early Elections

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has initiated a vote of confidence, set for December 16, following the collapse of his three-party coalition. This move paves the way for an early election in February. The decision comes amid pressure from the opposition and a struggling German economy.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced plans to seek a vote of confidence on December 16, potentially leading to early parliamentary elections this coming February.

During a parliamentary speech, Scholz revealed his decision barely a week after his three-party coalition government collapsed, initially planning for elections by late March.

The opposition, led by the centre-right Christian party, pressed for a swifter electoral process, prompting party leaders from across the political spectrum to agree on the new dates. The political instability comes as Germany confronts stalled economic growth, burdened by external challenges and internal deficiencies like bureaucratic inertia and a lack of skilled workers.

(With inputs from agencies.)