German coalition backs Merz after election setback

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has received the backing of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group following the coalition’s defeat in the state parliament elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

At a meeting of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, lawmakers publicly ruled out the possibility of an internal revolt against Merz, stressing the need for unity within the coalition, Caliber.Az reports via German media.

“If we allow a split to occur in any way now, not only will this government fail, but ultimately this country will fail too,” said parliamentary group deputy chairman Matthias Middelberg.

Middelberg called on MPs to maintain unity, arguing that the government and its parliamentary majority have only one opportunity to demonstrate that they can act together.

According to participants at the meeting, Merz also reaffirmed his intention to push ahead with the reforms planned by his government, particularly those concerning pensions and care for the elderly.

However, some of the proposed reforms remain contentious within the governing coalition, with disagreements persisting between the CDU/CSU and its coalition partner, the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD).

The backing from the CDU/CSU parliamentary group comes after the setback in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, as Merz seeks to maintain unity within his parliamentary bloc and advance the government's reform agenda.

By Sabina Mammadli