Scholz was held from the post of chancellor

On the evening of May 5, a solemn ceremony of Chancellor Olaf Solz was held at the German Ministry of Defense, he made a farewell speech.

Source: Tagesschau, “European Truth”

Details: In his farewell speech, Scholz called the future change of the government “a manifestation of democratic normality.”

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“In democracy, positions are always given only for a limited period. And this distinguishes us from autocractions around the world,” he emphasized during a military honor ceremony, which the Bundesver gave him the honor of his assigned authority to his successor – Friedrich Merz.

According to Scholz, “in our time it is by no means the norm that such a change is as civilized, collegically and decently as we see it here in Germany, these days.”

Scholtz mentioned the great social solidarity, in particular during the Cornavirus pandemic, in the reception of Ukrainian refugees and during the energy crisis after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“To serve this Germany as its chancellor – it was and remains a honor of my life,” Scholt said.

He also wished Merz “a lot of success, good luck and happy hand” in fulfilling all his tasks and in the challenges ahead.

Deutschland ist Stark, Wenn wir es zusammenhalten. Mit Respekt Voreinander. pic.twitter.com/fwntrrdys1

– Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz (@bundeskanzler) May 5, 2025

The ceremony known as Große Zapfenstreich (“Great Run”) is the most solemn ceremony of the Bundeswehr, which is honored by honored officials at the end of their service.

The ritual, which is arranged for goodbye to federal presidents, defense ministers and generals in Germany, dates back to the end of the 16th century.

Große zapfenstreich provides the same sequence of actions: the march of soldiers and pockets, the execution of three musical works (which can be chosen by the one who is honored), the reflection of the chechita military, the national anthem and again marching.

During the farewell ceremony, the orchestra performed the song “In My Life” by The Beatles, as Scholtz was a mayor of Hamburg – a city where the British band performed for a long time.

He also chose an excerpt from Brandenburg concert # 2 “Johann Sebastian Bach, because he lives in the capital of Brandenburg Potsdami.

In addition, Scholt chose the song of Aretha Franklin “Respect”, as this word was used in his election slogans in the 2021 elections.

Earlier, it became known that after his term as a chancellor, Scholz wanted to focus on work as a Bundestag deputy from his constituency.

The election in the parliament of the new chancellor, which will replace Scholz, will take place on May 6.

Read also: Merz and his team: who will enter the new government of Germany and what does it mean to Ukraine