The Green Party is calling for greater transparency and a shift in culture from the incoming leadership at Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national railway company. Matthias Gastel, the party’s rail expert within the Bundestag (Federal Parliament), emphasized the need for a new approach, stating that the new chief executive must cultivate “radical honesty” and move away from downplaying existing challenges. He stressed the importance of a “can-do” mentality and a commitment to actively addressing systemic issues.
Gastel highlighted that whoever assumes the leadership role should possess a deep understanding of the rail system’s intricacies, expressing the need for a champion of the railway network rather than simply an administrator. While an external perspective is considered beneficial, a thorough familiarity with the existing framework is deemed crucial.
The Green Party politician also urged Federal Minister for Transport, Patrick Schnieder, to accept greater responsibility from the federal government regarding the functionality and performance of Deutsche Bahn. Gastel advocated for substantial and dependable infrastructure funding coupled with enhanced oversight and management of the company’s operations. Minister Schnieder is expected to unveil his reform plans, including the announcement of Richard Lutz’s successor, on Monday.
