Posted on 01/27/2002 7:17:56 PM PST by dighton
GERHARD SCHRÖDER, the normally laid-back German chancellor, has been driven purple with rage by claims that he dyes his hair to cover up greying temples.
Mr Schröder, an urbane 57-year-old whose youthful looks appeal to many female voters, has taken the extraordinary step of threatening injunctions against anyone who repeats the allegation.
First, the mass circulation Bild newspaper carried an article noting mischievously that Mr Schröder, who has jet black hair, appeared "very modern" compared with other, greying politicians.
Then Sabine Schwind von Eggelstein, an image adviser, told the DDP news agency: "It would enhance his persuasiveness if he were not tingeing his grey temples away."
Mr Schröder immediately sent out a frosty comunique, and is reported to have said: "Anyone who insinuates that I dye my hair insinuates that I always lie."
In September's general election, Mr Schröder's opposition challenger will be the 60-year-old Erich Stoiber - whose hair is totally grey.
© Copyright of Telegraph Group Limited 2002.
That's left to right: German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, Mrs. Nane Annan, Mrs. Doris Schroeder and Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Looks like Mrs. Annan could kick all of their ventral orifices.
Also what is apparently an official campaign photo:
Good, then I'm not a total loss.
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