GERMANY - In a move widely seen as anointing her chosen successor, Angela Merkel on Monday promoted one of her key lieutenants to a pivotal role as chairman of her Christian Democrat party (CDU). The appointment puts Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer in pole position to take control of the party when Mrs Merkel eventually steps down or is forced from office. Popularly known as “mini-Merkel”, Ms Kramp-Karrenbauer has long been seen as the chancellor’s preferred successor. But Monday's move is the first sign that Mrs Merkel is now actively planning for the succession even as rival candidates begin to circle.