Germany takes new path as Scholz replaces Merkel as chancellor

Olaf Scholz (AP)

Olaf Scholz is set to take office as Germany’s ninth post-war chancellor, succeeding Angela Merkel after her 16-year tenure.

Mr Scholz’s government takes office with high hopes of modernising the European Union’s most populous nation and combating climate change, but faces the immediate challenge of handling Germany’s toughest phase yet of the coronavirus pandemic.