German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has drawn sharp criticism from within his own conservative ranks after a disorganised cabinet reshuffle, partly confirmed on 29 July, that required him to make a second attempt at replacing his transport minister. Analysts say the episode exposes a tendency to make decisions unilaterally and without consultation, undermining his authority at a moment when he already holds record-low approval ratings — with over 80% of Germans viewing him unfavourably after just one year in office. The fallout comes weeks before regional elections in September, where his CDU (Christian Democratic Union) risks losing ground to the far-right Alternative for Germany party, a movement Merz had vowed to contain.