Outgoing German chancellor hails 'democratic normality' of change in government

By Oliver Towfigh Nia

BERLIN (AA) – In a farewell speech, outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday hailed the imminent change of government as an "expression of democratic normality.”

In the times we live in, it is "by no means normal for such a change to take place in such a civilized, collegial, and decent manner as we are experiencing here in Germany these days," said Scholz during a military farewell ceremony in Berlin on the eve of the planned handover of power to his designated successor, Christian Democratic leader Friedrich Merz.

This civil interaction among democrats must be protected and preserved "because it is precious," Scholz added.

He stressed that democracy does not mean that everyone always has to agree, but it does require a fundamental understanding of solidarity among one another.

"An understanding of commonality that we share in our country despite our different views, backgrounds, and convictions – and according to which Germany is strong – and only then – when we stick together."

Scholz will from now on be a regular member of the lower house of parliament, or Bundestag, which is expected to vote for Merz as the country’s new chancellor on Tuesday.