Germany chancellor Friedrich Merz's messy path to power raises questions

Merz had been working to project strength and purpose but instead became mired in political intrigue and division.

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Friedrich Merz's initial, shock defeat - in his bid to become chancellor - sparked hours of chaotic uncertainty.

A man who'd been working to project strength and purpose instead became mired in political intrigue and division.

Merz may have won on the second try, but today's messy path to power raises serious questions about the future government.

If he couldn't muster the votes amongst coalition colleagues - at such a key moment - how will he fare when trying to push through any contentious legislation?