Spain's Sanchez reshuffles cabinet after transport minister quits over train crashes
MADRID: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Wednesday his deputy, Carlos Cuerpo, would provisionally run the Transport Ministry after Oscar Puente’s resignation over two deadly high-speed train crashes this year. Puente’s move six days after this year’s second traumatic rail accident has left the ruling Socialists fighting an election campaign without one of their most combative, but…
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Wednesday that his deputy, Carlos Cuerpo, would temporarily assume leadership of the Transport Ministry following Oscar Puente's resignation. The move comes six days after the second high-speed train crash this year, resulting in 115 deaths. Puente resigned after a tense four-hour grilling by lawmakers, who demanded he accept responsibility for the rail disasters.
The ruling Socialists are currently campaigning for upcoming elections, with Puente's resignation leaving the party without one of its most combative, yet polarizing figures. Sanchez praised Puente for his political dignity and integrity, stating that his decision helped restore confidence in the rail system. Independent analyst Eduardo Bayon noted that Puente's resignation deprived the opposition People's Party of their main target, shifting the conversation towards necessary railway security measures and investment.
Puente, who had vowed to stay and address the investigation into last week's crash, surprised lawmakers by announcing his resignation on Tuesday night. He will not stand as a candidate in the November 29 election. The minister's resignation may impact the ruling Socialists' campaign strategy, as support polls have shown a slight drop following the latest crash.
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