A lawmaker from Germany's ruling Social Democrats has suggested that his party and the opposition Christian Democrats share the office of chancellor, after last Sunday's election failed to produce a clear winner.
Social Democratic lawmaker Johannes Kahrs says Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder should serve for two years before giving up his post to Christian-Democratic leader Angela Merkel.
Last Sunday's election saw the Christian Democrats end up with a few more seats than their rivals. Both have since made little progress in attempts to form a coalition with some of the smaller parties.
Ms. Merkel and Mr. Schroeder met earlier this week to discuss a possible coalition. Both say they have earned the right to the chancellor's office. Officials from both parties say it could take weeks before there is a final agreement.
Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.
