GermanyThe Federal President of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, has appointed new ministers, but their swearing-in before the Bundestag (parliament) is scheduled for September after the summer recess. This timing has sparked debate over whether the constitutional requirement for ministers to take an oath before the parliament is being followed. According to Article 64 of the Basic Law, ministers are appointed by the Federal President upon the recommendation of the Chancellor, but they must swear an oath before the Bundestag to officially assume office. Some argue that the oath is essential for the legitimacy of the minister’s role, while others, including the federal government, claim the oath can be conducted later when the parliament reconvenes. The Interior Ministry clarified that until the oath is taken, a minister cannot make decisions, though any actions taken prematurely would still be legally valid.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives on the constitutional interpretation regarding the timing of the ministerial oath, without favoring one side. It includes quotes from legal experts and the Interior Ministry, providing balanced information on the debate.
