- Germany is set to get its first female president after Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative bloc and other governing parties united behind Bavaria's Ilse Aigner.
- Aigner received official backing from leaders of Merz's Christian Democratic Union and the center-left Social Democrats, making her election almost certain.
- The Greens have also signalled support, ensuring Aigner has enough backing for an absolute majority in the upcoming election.
- Aigner is set to be elected by the Federal Convention on January 30, succeeding Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who is stepping down.
- Aigner served as Germany's agriculture minister from 2008 to 2013 under Chancellor Angela Merkel, and has held various senior ministerial roles in Bavaria.
- Aigner became speaker of the Bavarian state legislature in 2018, further solidifying her political career.
- Alternative for Germany plans to field its own candidate, with co-leader Alice Weidel criticizing Aigner's nomination.
Germany is on the brink of electing its first female president, Ilse Aigner, on January 30, following her nomination by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and support from the ruling coalition and the Greens.
Aigner, 61, currently serves as the speaker of Bavaria's state legislature and has a history of political service, including as agriculture minister under Angela Merkel.
"From my point of view, it is high time for a woman to hold this highest office for the first time," Merz stated, emphasizing the significance of her candidacy in a polarized political climate.
Aigner aims to be a unifying figure, stating, "It humbles me, but it also makes me brave because I want to be a candidate for a strong middle ground."
The election comes as Germany faces increasing societal divisions and the rise of extremist ideologies.
Aigner's election would not only break the gender barrier but also reflect a shift towards a more inclusive political landscape.
"Our country and our democracy – yes, they are under attack from within and without," Aigner remarked, highlighting the challenges ahead.
With broad support, she is expected to secure an absolute majority in the Federal Convention, which comprises members from the lower house of parliament and delegates from Germany's 16 federal states.
If elected, Aigner would reside at Schloss Bellevue, the presidential palace, becoming the first CSU member to hold the office.
The current president, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, is stepping down after two terms, paving the way for Aigner's historic candidacy.
“Aigner, 61, a trained electrical engineering technician, would be the first CSU member to reside at Schloss Bellevue. The president can refuse to sign legislation and formally appoints the chancellor, while the secret ballot leaves room for defections.”
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