Germany's new election law has left 23 directly elected candidates without seats in the Bundestag, sparking widespread debate.

The reform, aimed at reducing the Bundestag's size from 733 to 630 members, eliminates overhang and compensation mandates.

This means candidates who win their constituencies may still lose out if their party's overall vote share is insufficient.

Among those affected are 18 from the CDU/CSU, four from the AfD, and one from the SPD.

Critics, including CDU leaders, argue the reform undermines voter trust, as directly elected representatives are denied seats.

Proponents, however, defend the changes as necessary to ensure proportional representation and a leaner parliament.