German President Dissolves Bundestag; Early Elections Expected

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has announced the decision to dissolve the Bundestag and set a date for early elections. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

“Today I have decided to dissolve the 20th Bundestag and schedule early elections for February 23 of next year. A corresponding notification has been sent to the President of the Bundestag,” Steinmeier stated.

The initiative to dissolve the parliament was taken by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. This follows a governmental crisis that began when the parliament voted to express no confidence in the government on December 16, with a significant majority. Out of 717 members, 394 voted in favor of dissolving the parliament and holding new elections, while 207 supported Scholz’s government and 116 abstained. At least 367 votes were needed to express no confidence.