German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing growing pressure as his approval ratings fall and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party gains support.
According to a poll by German public broadcaster ARD, only 13 per cent of Germans are satisfied with Merz's leadership, the lowest rating recorded for a sitting chancellor in the nearly 30-year history of the survey.
Economic concerns, including dissatisfaction with Germany's economy and planned pension and healthcare reforms, are weighing on his government.
The AfD has also overtaken the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party in national support, according to the figures cited by Anadolu Agency, with 28 per cent support compared with 21 per cent for Merz's party.
Merz is also facing criticism within his party following a turbulent Cabinet reshuffle.
German magazine Der Spiegel reported that several figures close to the chancellor and within the CDU leadership are questioning his political future.
A senior CDU official, speaking anonymously, told the magazine that Merz could be forced to leave office by 21 September, following state elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
One possible successor is Hendrik Wüst, the CDU minister-president of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Wüst has rejected speculation that he could replace Merz, saying the chancellorship is “not an option for me at this time”, while leaving open the possibility of running for the position in the future.
Under Germany's parliamentary system, Merz could be replaced if he resigns or loses a constructive vote of no confidence in the Bundestag.
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