Merz's messy path to power raises questions for future government1 day ago Share Save Jessica Parker BBC News Reporting from Berlin Share SaveEPAThe day Germany's new leader entered office will now forever be remembered for a very public failure. Friedrich Merz's initial, shock defeat - in his bid to become chancellor - sparked hours of chaotic uncertainty. A man who'd been working to project strength and purpose instead became mired in political intrigue and division. Merz may have won on the second try, but today's messy path to power raises serious questions about the future government. But Merz's allies insist the situation can quickly be recovered and reject the idea that Merz emerges irreparably damaged.