Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) are expected to lead a minority government in partnership with the Greens, after firing Lindner of the Free Democrats (FDP) amid disputes over economic policy and budget issues.

The dissolution of the coalition comes amid waning public support for the government and rising popularity of far-right and far-left opposition parties. Scholz cited Lindner’s “obstructive behavior” in budget discussions as the reason for his dismissal, accusing him of prioritizing partisan interests over national stability and blocking essential legislation. “We need a government that is able to act, that has the strength to make the necessary decisions for our country,” Scholz remarked to reporters.

Tensions between the coalition parties escalated over fiscal policies, with Lindner advocating for tax and benefit cuts as a way to stimulate Germany’s economy, an approach Scholz opposed. The discord culminated in Lindner’s ouster, with Scholz asserting that the finance minister’s actions had “spectacularly imploded” the alliance.

Political analysts forecast that Scholz’s minority government may struggle to secure support, as he faces a confidence vote scheduled for January. (ILKHA)