On the evening of May 5, 2025, Olaf Scholz (SPD) will be officially bid farewell by the Bundeswehr with the Großer Zapfenstreich, a traditional military ceremony, marking the end of his nearly three-and-a-half-year term as Federal Chancellor. This event will take place at the parade ground of the Federal Ministry of Defense in Berlin, where the highest form of military honor will be bestowed upon him.
The Großer Zapfenstreich is not just a ceremonial farewell; it serves to strengthen the cohesion of the troops and reinforce the connection between the Bundeswehr and the population. Historically, this ceremony dates back to the 16th century during the time of the Landsknechte, where it originally signified the end of alcohol service in taverns. Over the centuries, it evolved into a formal military ritual, solidifying its place in German military tradition.
The ceremony will commence at 9:30 PM, with expected guests including Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD), and the Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, Carsten Breuer. The event will also be broadcast live on several television channels, allowing those unable to attend in person to witness this significant moment. Channels such as ARD (Das Erste), Phoenix, ntv, and Welt will cover the event live, starting their broadcasts at various times around the ceremony's start.
Olaf Scholz has selected three songs for the ceremony, reflecting his personal tastes and the significance of the occasion. He has chosen "Respect," originally by Otis Redding and famously covered by Aretha Franklin; an excerpt from Johann Sebastian Bach's "2nd Brandenburg Concerto"; and "In My Life" by The Beatles. These selections not only showcase a blend of musical genres but also carry personal meaning for the Chancellor, who led the SPD back to power in 2021.
In contrast, his predecessor Angela Merkel (CDU) had opted for songs with distinct cultural significance, including the DDR hit "Du hast den Farbfilm vergessen" by Nina Hagen. Such musical choices have become a traditional aspect of the Großer Zapfenstreich, allowing honorees to leave a personal mark on the ceremony.
The Großer Zapfenstreich is reserved for high-ranking political officials and military leaders, making it a rare honor that underscores the importance of the occasion. While the event is steeped in tradition, it has faced criticism from some quarters. Detractors argue that the ceremony evokes memories of militaristic parades from Prussian history and Nazi-era torchlight processions, labeling it a symbol of German militarism.
This farewell comes at a pivotal moment for Scholz, who has faced challenges during his time in office, including managing the coalition government and navigating significant national issues. His leadership style has often been described as "nüchtern" (sober), which has drawn both praise and criticism. Supporters appreciate his steady approach, while critics argue that it sometimes veers into indecisiveness.
Scholz's tenure has not been without its controversies. Notably, he faced internal strife within his coalition, particularly with Finance Minister Christian Lindner from the FDP. Following a breakdown in their working relationship, Scholz publicly expressed his disappointment, stating, "Too often, Federal Minister Lindner has blocked laws for irrelevant reasons and engaged in petty political maneuvering, too often he has broken my trust." Such tensions have highlighted the challenges of coalition governance in Germany.
As the Großer Zapfenstreich approaches, it serves as a reminder of the political landscape in Germany. The event is not merely a farewell; it is a reflection of Scholz's journey and the complexities he faced during his chancellorship. With Friedrich Merz (CDU) set to be elected as the new Federal Chancellor the following day, the ceremony symbolizes both an ending and a transition.
In preparation for the ceremony, certain streets in Berlin will be closed to accommodate the event. Stauffenbergstraße will be blocked from 6 PM to 10:30 PM, and the Reichpietschufer will be closed from 9:15 PM to 10:30 PM, ensuring a smooth and secure environment for the proceedings.
As the evening unfolds, the Großer Zapfenstreich promises to be a poignant and reflective moment, celebrating Scholz's contributions while also marking a significant transition in German leadership. The ceremony encapsulates the traditions of the Bundeswehr while also resonating with the contemporary political climate in Germany.
Scholz's departure from the Chancellery may signal the end of an era, but his influence will undoubtedly linger. He plans to remain active in politics as a member of the Bundestag, continuing to advocate for his core themes of social justice and respect. His journey, characterized by resilience and a commitment to public service, will serve as a testament to the complexities of leadership in modern Germany.
