On Epiphany, an unusual event occurred in the Chancellery: Chancellor Friedrich Merz cancelled the traditional reception of the carol singers at short notice. The date has been an integral part of the chancellor's calendar for decades – regardless of who is currently in power. This year, however, the children suddenly found themselves without the chancellor.

Instead, the carol singers had to pose for press photos with Chancellery Minister Thorsten Frei. The disappointment was visible: the elongated faces of many children left no doubt that the substitute visit hardly triggered enthusiasm.

As it became known at the government press conference, Merz surprisingly cancelled his participation. Originally, his presence was firmly planned – as was customary for all chancellors over the years. The reason for the cancellation: At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Merz traveled to Paris to attend a meeting of the so-called "coalition of the willing," another summit related to the Ukraine war.

The fact that an international meeting takes precedence over a firmly anchored appointment with children from all over Germany raises questions – not only about the chancellor's diary, but also about his political priorities.

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Symbolism with a bitter aftertaste

While individual carol singers – for example from Mettmann – did not let their good mood be taken away from them, many were left with the impression that tradition and symbolism did not play a major role on this day. The carol singer reception in particular is considered a sign of appreciation for voluntary commitment, faith and social cohesion.

The fact that this date of all events had to make way for another Ukraine summit raises the question of whether the Chancellor still makes a clear distinction between the international stage and domestic political responsibility.

Inquiries by alternative media to the Federal Chancellery as to whether an alternative date was planned were answered evasively. Translated, this means that there will be no catch-up date.

A total of 108 children from all 27 Catholic dioceses in Germany took part in the traditional meeting - a nationwide symbol that had to take place without the Federal Chancellor this year.

The process leaves a stale aftertaste. When even firmly established national traditions are sacrificed in favor of permanent international crises, the question inevitably arises: Does Chancellor Merz still know for which country he is governing – and for whom?

Especially in times of growing domestic political tensions, many citizens expect the chancellor to be present not only at summits, but also where social proximity, respect and national responsibility are at stake.















Author: Redaktion
Source: dpa, Nius.de