more-inAngela Merkel’s conservatives and their Social Democrat (SPD) partners faced a chorus of scepticism on Thursday as allies and opponents alike criticised the coalition deal. But Ms. Merkel’s camp was also forced to defend a deal that sees the conservatives cede the crucial Finance Minister post in exchange for a fourth term in office for her. Christian von Stetten, a lawmaker from Ms. Merkel’s own Christian Democrats (CDU), said the allocation of Cabinet posts, and the Finance Ministry in particular, had been “a political mistake”. Both camps have had to make major sacrifices to secure a deal. The agreement promises an unusual half-time review after two years, when the parties will reassess the coalition — already being seen as a possible opportunity for Ms. Merkel finally to step down.

Source: The Hindu February 08, 2018 15:33 UTC