German Intelligence Chief Role to Remain Vacant Until After Federal Election

The position, left open by Thomas Haldenwang's resignation in November, will continue to be managed by his deputies as discussions on his successor are ongoing.

The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) has been without a permanent chief since Thomas Haldenwang stepped down in November 2024 to run as a CDU candidate in the February 2025 federal election.
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser initially aimed to appoint a new BfV president before the election but has now indicated that the process will take longer due to ongoing consultations.
Deputy heads Silke Willems and Sinan Selen will continue to oversee the intelligence agency's operations in the interim.
Discussions regarding Haldenwang's replacement include ensuring broad parliamentary support, which complicates a pre-election appointment.
Haldenwang's decision to run for office as a CDU candidate in Wuppertal I surprised many, although his retirement plans had been known for some time.