Germany on Brink: Early Election Looms as Coalition Collapses
Berlin, Germany (AP) — Chancellor Olaf Scholz has dismissed a claim by Elon Musk that only the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) can save the country, asserting that freedom of opinion also extends to multibillionaires.
The assertion comes as Germany prepares for an early election on February 23, following the collapse of Scholz's three-party governing coalition last month over a dispute on how to revitalize the stagnant economy.
AfD on the Rise: Polls Indicate Strong Support
The far-right AfD is polling strongly in Germany, but its candidate for the top job, Alice Weidel, faces an uphill battle as other parties refuse to work with it. The center-right Union bloc leads in polls, and Scholz's center-left Social Democrats trail behind.
Musk Weighs In: "Only AfD Can Save Germany"
In a post on the social network X, Musk wrote that only the AfD can save Germany. Weidel responded with a video thanking Musk and declaring the AfD as the last option for the country.
Scholz Responds: Freedom of Opinion Applies to All
When asked about Musk's comment at a news conference, Scholz replied that freedom of opinion applies to all individuals, including multibillionaires. He emphasized that it also means one can say things that are not right and do not contain good political advice.
Scholz added that the democratic parties in Germany see things differently from the AfD, implying a stark contrast between the two perspectives.
Government Responds: No Consequences for Musk's Comment
When asked if there would be any consequences for Musk's comment regarding the German government's presence on X, spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann noted that the government has expressed concern about how the platform developed under Musk.
Hoffmann stated that despite these concerns, the government will continue to maintain a presence on X due to its importance in reaching and informing people. She emphasized the significant disadvantages of not being represented on relevant social media platforms.
Early Election Looms: President's Decision Expected Soon
The decision to dissolve parliament and hold an early election lies with Germany's head of state, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. His office announced that he will make a statement on December 27, regarding the next steps.
Scholz lost a confidence vote on Monday, leaving the country on the brink of an early election. The outcome remains uncertain as Germany prepares for this critical moment in its political history.