German Chancellor Merz faces criticism over four-week holiday amid crises
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has been absent from public view for nearly four weeks, drawing sharp criticism from German media. Government Deputy Spokesperson Sebastian Hille defended Merz, saying he remains in constant contact with cabinet members and foreign leaders. The criticism comes as Germany faces extreme heat, wildfires, drought, and a drone incident at Leipzig-Halle Airport.
Key Facts
- Merz has been absent from public view since July 29, when he said 'Good holidays, goodbye.'
- German media outlets Tagesschau, ZDF, and NDR questioned the length of the break, initially announced as a few days.
- Government Deputy Spokesperson Sebastian Hille said Merz is in constant contact with cabinet members, party representatives, and foreign heads of state.
- German media described Hille's explanations as 'philosophical' and said the Chancellery avoids acknowledging Merz's need for rest.
Public Absence
Merz disappeared from public view on July 29 after saying 'Good holidays, goodbye.' The break was initially announced as lasting only a few days but has extended to nearly a month. Tagesschau, ZDF, and NDR questioned the length of the absence. German media ran headlines such as 'Germany's Chancellor is missed.'
Government Response
Government Deputy Spokesperson Sebastian Hille argued that the concepts of 'chancellor' and 'holiday' are not incompatible. Hille said Merz's lack of public appointments does not mean he is not working. Hille emphasized that Merz is in constant contact with cabinet members, party representatives, and foreign heads of state. German media described these explanations as 'philosophical' and said the Chancellery avoids acknowledging Merz's need for rest.
Crisis Context
Germany is facing extreme heat, wildfires, and drought. A drone carrying explosives was found at Leipzig-Halle Airport. Merz has made only limited social media posts during this period.
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German Chancellor Merz faces criticism over four-week holiday amid crises
