Merz nominates Ilse Aigner for Germany's presidency

BERLIN, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday nominated Ilse Aigner for the country's presidency, a move that could see Germany elect its first female head of state.

The President of Bavaria's State Parliament Ilse Aigner (L) poses with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a press conference after a meeting with the leadership of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, on November 9, 2026 in Berlin. (Photo: AFP)

Merz, who also heads the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), announced the decision at a press conference in Berlin.

Aigner currently serves as president of the Bavarian state parliament and is a member of the Christian Social Union (CSU).