Merkel’s New Heir Gets Warning From Top Coalition Contender

  • Habeck says CDU leader lacks the vision to lead Germany
  • Green party could seek to lead government after election

Armin Laschet is a centrist in Merkel’s mold, Habeck said he’s not forward-looking enough to lead Germany.

Photographer: Christian Marquardt/Action Press/Bloomberg

Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

The newly-elected chief of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s party was given a rude welcome by the leading contender to form a government after September elections.

Robert Habeck, co-head of Germany’s Green Party, criticized Armin Laschet as lacking vision and vowed to fight the Christian Democrats for voters before considering any chances of a coalition. The comments indicate a tough campaign as Germany prepares for a political reshuffle after 16 years under Merkel.