Berlin, Feb. 23 -- Germans are casting their votes in a pivotal election shaped by economic difficulties and security concerns, with migration emerging as a key issue following a series of deadly attacks.

Around 59.2 million people are eligible to vote, though millions have already cast their ballots by post, according to a BBC report.

Polling stations close at 18:00 (17:00 GMT), and initial results are expected in the evening, with a clearer picture emerging early Monday.

Candidates in the fray

Four main candidates are vying to lead the government: Chancellor Olaf Scholz from the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD), Friedrich Merz of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck of the Greens, and Al...