Kathmandu— German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was met with boos and whistles on Saturday during his first public appearance in 23 days, a visit to the North Rhine-Westphalia region recently impacted by severe wildfires. The hostile reception comes as Merz’s approval rating has plummeted amid widespread dissatisfaction with his government's handling of economic stagnation and unfulfilled promises. Approximately 200 people attended the event, some protesting with signs critical of the chancellor, following a three-week vacation that began on July 29th. Firefighters had recently completed battling what was described as the largest wildfire in the Eifel region’s history, an effort complicated by potential unexploded ordnance from World War II.

Wildfire Response and Public Sentiment

The visit to North Rhine-Westphalia followed a large wildfire in the Eifel region that forced the evacuation of around 2,000 people. Firefighting efforts were completed earlier this week but were hampered by the presence of possible unexploded ordnance dating back to World War II. Merz’s speech thanking emergency services was repeatedly interrupted by shouts, whistles, and tractor horns from those in attendance.

Plummeting Approval Ratings

Approval ratings for Merz's governing coalition – comprising the Christian Democratic CDU/CSU bloc and the Social Democratic Party – have been steadily declining since taking office in May 2025. A recent YouGov poll, reported by the German Press Agency (dpa) on Sunday, indicates that a majority of Germans anticipate Merz being replaced before the next scheduled election in 2029. Earlier reporting from Welt indicated his approval had already reached a record low due to perceived broken promises and a lack of leadership.

Internal Party Discontent

Growing dissatisfaction with Merz’s performance extends within his own party, the CDU. Der Spiegel reported last month that discussions were underway regarding his potential departure as chancellor following a problematic cabinet reshuffle. The source indicated internal discontent was mounting.

The incident highlights the growing challenges facing Chancellor Merz and his coalition government as they struggle to address economic concerns and maintain public support.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.