Who will be Germany's chancellor in 2025? The seven leading candidates

The upcoming elections will be a defining moment for Germany's future. But who are the leading candidates for the post, and which of these candidates will win the hearts of voters and take the country's highest office?

On February 23, 2025, German citizens will elect a new chancellor in parliamentary elections. This process, one of the most important in German democracy, determines the leader who will lead the country in national and international challenges. But who are the main candidates for this position?

1- Olaf Scholz (SPD) : The current chancellor and a long-time figure in German politics. Scholz served as labor and finance minister during Merkel's government. However, he faces criticism for his perception as a bureaucrat and low support in polls.

2- Friedrich Merz (CDU): A conservative candidate who represents traditional German values. Merz is a lawyer with a long career in the private sector and is known for his commitment to business causes. He is the oldest candidate for chancellor in the last 50 years.

3- Robert Habeck (Greens) : A pragmatic politician with an informal style and closeness to the public. Habeck, a former writer and philosopher, has gained a reputation for his candid approach and simple speeches explaining government decisions.

4- Alice Weidel (AfD): One of the AfD's co-chairs, Weidel is a controversial figure who advocates Eurosceptic and immigration-critical positions. With a doctorate in economics and international experience, she remains a strong voice for far-right politics.

5- Christian Lindner (FDP): The FDP leader and former finance minister, Lindner is known for his communication skills and love of technology. He helped reorganize the liberal party and continues to be a central figure in German politics.

6- Sahra Wagenknecht (BSW): Known for her strong rhetoric and for combining conservative and left-wing social policies, Wagenknecht leads the Alliance that bears her name. She is one of the most polarizing figures in German politics.

7- Jan van Aken (Left Party): A biologist and former UN inspector, van Aken has been a member of parliament for the Left Party and is currently its co-chairman. He aims to revitalize the party at a difficult time./DW