As Germany transitions to a new leadership, outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) bids farewell with a ceremonial Großer Zapfenstreich, marking the end of his nearly four-year term. Scholz, who is set to be succeeded by Friedrich Merz (CDU), reflects on his time in office and shares his plans for the future.
On May 5, 2025, Scholz was honored by the Bundeswehr in a traditional military ceremony that has been a long-standing custom for departing chancellors. The event took place in Berlin, with notable attendees including Bundespräsident Frank-Walter Steinmeier. During his farewell address, Scholz emphasized the importance of protecting democracy in Germany, stating, "In a democracy, offices are only granted for a limited time. This distinguishes us from autocracies worldwide."
Scholz's term lasted 1245 days, making it one of the shortest in German history, surpassed only by Ludwig Erhard (1142 days) and Kurt Georg Kiesinger (1055 days). As he prepares to step down, he expressed confidence in the democratic process, calling the upcoming government transition an "expression of democratic normality." He wished Merz, his successor, "much success, fortune, and a happy hand" in his new role.
In his speech, Scholz also highlighted the solidarity demonstrated by the German people during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing energy crisis stemming from the Ukraine war. He noted, "In crises, our country stands together and grows beyond itself." Reflecting on his tenure, he remarked, "Serving this Germany as its Bundeskanzler was and remains the honor of my life."
As he departs from office, Scholz has made it clear that he does not plan to retreat entirely from public life. At 66 years old, he is eligible for a comfortable retirement, but he intends to continue serving as a Bundestag member for his constituency in Potsdam. Scholz has stated, "I want to be a normal citizen again," and has ruled out becoming a lobbyist or engaging in political commentary. Instead, he looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Britta Ernst, enjoying activities such as traveling, going to the theater, and cinema.
Financially, Scholz is in a secure position. As chancellor, he earned approximately 30,000 Euros per month, and under the Ministergesetz, he is entitled to a transition payment and a pension. His retirement benefits will amount to about 5700 Euros monthly, based on 27.74 percent of his final salary. Scholz's pension is expected to be supplemented by additional benefits from his previous roles as a federal minister and the First Mayor of Hamburg.
In a poignant moment during the Großer Zapfenstreich, Scholz selected three musical pieces that reflect his personality and political journey. The Bundeswehr played hits by the Beatles, including "In My Life," an excerpt from Bach's "2. Brandenburg Concerto," and Aretha Franklin's "Respect," which resonates with his campaign slogan from the 2021 election.
The ceremony was not without its notable absences. Former Finance Minister Christian Lindner (FDP), who has had a strained relationship with Scholz since their time in the Ampel coalition, was unable to attend due to new parental responsibilities. Lindner and his wife, Franca Lehfeldt, welcomed their first child just a month prior. Despite the tensions, Lindner expressed his respect for the ceremonial transition, stating, "The Zapfenstreich is part of the ceremonial power transition in our democracy. Participation is an honor."
As Scholz exits the political stage, he joins a legacy of chancellors who have all faced their own challenges and triumphs. The Großer Zapfenstreich not only serves as a formal farewell but also as a reminder of the continuous evolution of Germany's political landscape. With Merz set to take office as the tenth Bundeskanzler on May 6, 2025, the nation watches closely as a new chapter begins.
In reflection, Scholz's time as chancellor may have been brief, but his contributions to Germany's democracy and his commitment to public service will not be forgotten. As he prepares for a new phase of life, he hopes to embrace the simple joys of everyday living, including, as he humorously noted, the chance to "sleep in".
