Germany’s centre-right CDU/CSU bloc is set for a clear victory in Sunday’s parliamentary elections, with exit polls showing it securing 28.5% to 29% of the vote.

This paves the way for Friedrich Merz to become the next chancellor, succeeding Olaf Scholz, depending on coalition talks.

The far-right AfD saw a significant surge, reaching 19.5% to 20%.

Scholz’s Social Democrats (SPD) faced a major defeat, falling to third place with 16%, while the Greens came in fourth with 12% to 13%, the German Press Agency has reported.

Coalition negotiations will now focus on options excluding the AfD, as all mainstream parties have ruled out a deal with them.

Written by B.C. Begley