Conservatives lead in German election as far-right AfD secures second place

Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's opposition conservatives, has claimed victory in the national elections, with exit polls showing his party winning 28.5% of the vote. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) finished second with 20%. Merz, who lacks government experience, aims to provide stronger leadership than outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz. However, his party will need to form a coalition to govern, as they did not secure a majority. The election follows the collapse of Scholz's coalition and reflects a shift in public sentiment on migration. The AfD's rise complicates coalition-building, as mainstream parties have ruled out working with them.