Prominent political figures, including Minister President Alexander Schweitzer and Minister of Economics Daniela Schmitt, praised Mertin's commitment to democratic values and his significant impact on the state's politics.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mertin was vocal about the need to restore civil liberties and reduce restrictions as case numbers fell.

He is survived by his wife and four adult sons, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to justice and democracy.

Schweitzer noted that Mertin's commitment to democracy stemmed from his own experiences, having fled political persecution in Chile as a young man.

Herbert Mertin, the Justice Minister of Rheinland-Pfalz, has unexpectedly passed away at the age of 66 after collapsing during a ceremony for honorary judges in Koblenz.

Despite being taken to the hospital, medical staff were unable to save him, as confirmed by the FDP state association.

The news of his death was confirmed by a spokesperson for the FDP state association in Rheinland-Pfalz.

Born in 1958 in Temuco, Chile, Mertin's experiences with injustice during his youth influenced his lifelong dedication to defending democracy.

He studied law in Mainz and Bonn and joined the Free Democratic Party (FDP) in 1983, entering the state parliament in 1996.

Mertin first entered the Rheinland-Palatinate State Parliament in 1996 and was appointed Justice Minister in 1999, serving under various administrations throughout his career.

He served in the Ampelkoalition government and was known for his strong advocacy of civil rights and an independent judiciary.

Former FDP state chairman and current Federal Minister Volker Wissing expressed deep sorrow over Mertin's death, describing him as a passionate advocate for liberal values and a personal mentor.