Members of the Social Democrats (SPD) have signed off on a coalition pact with the centre-right CDU and CSU, paving the way for a new government to enter office next week in Germany.
Following the approval of the Union parties, SPD members voted to approve the new deal by an overwhelming majority on Wednesday, clearing the last hurdle in the formation of the new coalition.
According to reports in DPA, 84.6 percent voted in favour of the coalition pact, while around 15 percent voted against. Out of some 358,000 members, around 56 percent took part in the vote.
Since April 15th, SPD members have been voting on the the 144-page treaty, which is titled ‘Responsibility for Germany’. The party’s internal polls closed on 11:59pm on Tuesday.
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In contrast to the Union, SPD members were far more critical about the agreed coalition pact, with some factions criticising vague promises on the minimum wage and the tough line on benefits and migration.
The party’s Jusos youth wing, which has around 80,000 members, had recommended a vote against the pact and the reopening of negotations.
Next steps
The members’ approval paves the way for the coalition pact to be formally signed on Monday, with CDU leader Friedrich Merz being sworn in as Chancellor on Tuesday.
Though the CSU and CDU announced their picks for cabinet on Monday, the SPD had been waiting for the results of the members’ vote to reveal its ministerial choices.
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According to media reports, SPD leader Lars Klingbeil will be in charge of the powerful Finance Ministry, while Boris Pistorius is likely to stay on as Defence Secretary.
During coalition talks back in March and early April, Klingbeil had led the negotiations for the centre-left party. Side-lining co-leader Saskia Esken, he reportedly had several discussions with Merz on a one-on-one basis.
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Following Wednesday’s announcement, the party will reveal the candidates for its seven allocated ministries on Monday – a day before the new government is due to enter office.
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