Germany’s government is being tested by the Greek debt crisis. The question is how much power Angela Merkel should have as Chancellor. She brokered a deal with Sarkozy and the EU in July about the second Greek bailout. But has she exceeded her powers in agreeing to increase the powers of the EU bailout fund? Does it impinge on Germany’s sovereignty and Germany’s constitution?
Some members of her own party, the CDU, say yes. They want more influence over future deals like this one. They’re withholding their vote on the bailout until she gives it to them.
The vote is now postponed until September 29 almost one month from now. The eyes of Europe are turned to Germany to watch the outcome of the vote.