Berlin - The deputy leader of Germany's opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU) resigned yesterday in mysterious circumstances only six months after his appointment, Derry Scally reports.
Mr Ruprecht Polenz told a press conference that he did not feel he was suited to the job. But his sudden departure has prompted speculation that he was pressured into resigning by the CDU party leader, Ms Angela Merkel. "This isn't a dismissal . . . but it was absolutely necessary for the party," Ms Merkel said yesterday, pointing out that as party leader she has no means of firing Mr Polenz.