Friedrich Merz vs Tshering Tobgay

After a decade away from frontline politics, Merz returned to run for the CDU leadership. He had left politics in 2009 to pursue a business career, including roles on the boards of BlackRock and other companies.

Merz lost the CDU leadership election to Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer in 2018. The defeat was a setback, but he remained a prominent figure in the party and eventually won the leadership in 2022.

As CDU leader, Merz advocated for economic liberalization, including tax cuts, deregulation, and a more market-oriented energy policy. His positions marked a shift from the centrist policies of Angela Merkel.

Friedrich Merz was elected as the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), succeeding Armin Laschet. He became the main opposition leader in Germany, positioning the CDU for the next federal election.

Tshering Tobgay was elected to the National Assembly of Bhutan as a candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). This was his entry into national politics after a career in the civil service.

After the PDP lost the 2008 elections, Tobgay became the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly. He led the party's parliamentary opposition to the ruling Druk Phuensum Tshogpa government.

Tobgay led the People's Democratic Party to victory in the 2013 National Assembly elections and became Prime Minister of Bhutan. His government focused on economic development, hydropower projects, and strengthening democracy.

Tobgay led the PDP to victory again in the 2023-2024 National Assembly elections, becoming Prime Minister for a second term. His return to power was seen as a mandate for his economic policies and governance.