Trace Dissertation, German Minister of Defense resigned

German Defence Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg resigned because of charges of plagiarism lodged dissertation.

This withdrawal would threaten the party feared that dipimpim conservative German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the upcoming regional elections.

Guttenberg announced his resignation a day after Bayreuth University revoke his doctorate. The university claimed Guttenberg has violated academic standards in his dissertation with a source that is not quite credible.

Guttenberg, who initially called this accusation "absurd", later admitted "big mistake" which he did. But he denied deliberately deceiving anyone. After allegations of plagiarism emerged, over the past two weeks, German Chancellor Angela Merkel always provide support.

Merkel groundless no problem in Guttenberg job as Minister of Defense. However, the allegations of the scandal continued to expand and Guttenberg feel this will overshadow its policy on the German military and the mission of troops in Afghanistan.

"This is the most painful step in my life," Guttenberg said when announcing his resignation as quoted by the Associated Press on Wednesday (02/03/2011).

"Like others, I have weaknesses and faults. I am pleased to acknowledge the political opponent, I was not appointed as Minister of Defense Self, but the Minister of Defense, "explained Guttenberg.

He submitted his doctoral dissertation in 2007, and five years later became a conservative MP. German media reports, he also will give up his seat in parliament.

Merkel accepted the resignation of 39-year-old minister with a "heavy heart". Guttenberg assess Merkel as Germany's most popular politician. Guttenberg has praised the political talent and extraordinary ability to inspire the hearts and get people interested in politics.

Guttenberg was a member of the Christian Social Union (CSU), which has affiliations with Merkel's party, the Christian Democratic Union. This year, the CSU does not follow local elections, but has been prepared Guttenberg Merkel campaigned for the party.

Guttenberg's presence will help Merkel, in which six of the 16 federal states in Germany will be holding municipal elections this year. Three states will hold elections in late March.