One of the leading figures of the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Germany and close ally of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Jens Spahn, has resigned from his position following a scandal over becoming a father through surrogacy in the USA.
Medianews.az reports, citing Musavat.com, that in his resignation letter, Spahn stated that starting a family and becoming a father with his wife was incompatible with his political duties.
It should be noted that surrogacy is prohibited in Germany, and the CDU supports this position. However, it is not legally forbidden for a child born through surrogacy abroad to be raised in Germany. For this reason, Spahn's action caused accusations of hypocrisy both within the party and in public. He had previously spoken in favor of banning surrogacy.
Amid increasing pressure, Jens Spahn announced his resignation from the post of parliamentary faction leader. Chancellor Friedrich Merz described this decision as inevitable and the right step.