Angela Merkel, the former Chancellor of Germany, will make her first appearance at a CDU party convention on February 20, 2026, following her departure from office in 2021. Her office confirmed that she will attend as a guest of honor up until the election of the party chairman on the first day of the convention. Previously, Merkel had declined invitations to the party conventions in 2022 and 2024, reflecting a period of distance from the party leadership following Friedrich Merz's election as CDU chairman in early 2022.

Despite this distance, several CDU politicians expressed satisfaction at Merkel's decision to participate in the upcoming meeting in Stuttgart. Her presence might signify a warming of relations with the current leadership, although it remains unclear whether she will address the attendees. The convention will also see other former party leaders in attendance, emphasizing the continuity and perhaps a sense of unity as the CDU seeks to strengthen its position in the political landscape.

Merkel's participation at the party convention is noteworthy within the context of CDU's current challenges and aspirations, as they strive for revitalization after recent electoral setbacks. As the party prepares for future elections, her insights and experience could provide valuable contributions to their strategies moving forward. The event, therefore, holds significant implications not only for Merkel's relationship with the CDU but also for the party's direction and morale.