German political crisis: Scholz's party agrees to hold early election in Feb after govt collapse

In a major political shakeup, Germany is heading for early elections in February 2025, following Chancellor Olaf Scholz's decision to sack Finance Minister Christian Lindner. The fallout led Lindner's Free Democratic Party to withdraw from the coalition, leaving Scholz’s government in jeopardy. As opposition pressure mounts for a confidence vote, Scholz may face snap elections as early as January. However, German ballot makers warn they aren't ready to meet the logistical demands, raising concerns about election integrity.