As Germans head to the polls today, Sunday, preparing for the post-Angela Merkel era, the German Chancellor bids farewell to power after decades in office. Although she participated in some campaign events for her party (the Christian Democratic Union), Merkel has appeared in recent days as if she has shed a heavy load after 16 years in power, during which she left a distinctive mark on Germany and Europe in general.
Just two days ago, the outgoing Chancellor showcased her lighter side during a visit to a bird park, and photos of her spread rapidly among her German fans on social media. The cameras captured the formidable woman, known for her poise and strength, as she interacted with colorful parrots, which leaped on her head and landed on her hands during her visit to the northeastern state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, according to the Associated Press.
One parrot, a Rainbow Lorikeet, was not satisfied with the food given to it and even pecked at the German leader's hand, prompting Merkel to shout, breaking free from the restraints she is typically known for. The 67-year-old politician was also seen at various locations taking selfies with voters and even enjoying drinks.
It is worth mentioning that German voters will cast their ballots today in a closely contested general election, where the Social Democratic Party from the center-left poses a significant challenge to the conservatives as they prepare for the post-Merkel period. The closeness of the results means that leading parties will enter talks with each other before starting formal negotiations to form a coalition, which may take months, thus keeping Merkel in a caretaker role.
Polls indicate an unusual tight race between the outgoing Chancellor's party and the Social Democratic Party, while the political landscape suggests the potential formation of a three-party coalition. The most likely scenarios indicate that the winner from the Social Democratic Party, the Christian Democratic Union, and the Christian Social Union will form a coalition with the Greens and the Free Democratic Party.
