Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) has announced his resignation. Speaking on Sunday, Schnieder stated that he would ask the Federal Chancellor to propose his dismissal from his position by the Federal President. He explained that this step is necessary to address the developments of recent days and to end the “indignified state” which he claims makes the essential work of the ministry impossible. Furthermore, Schnieder stressed that a “quick and clear replacement” is absolutely crucial in the interest of the country and for the ministry to function effectively. He concluded by thanking all the staff at the ministry and the partners in government, states, and municipalities for their good cooperation.
Schnieder’s departure follows a period of political turmoil. The resignation comes after Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) had informed Schnieder that he intended to remove him from office. However, Merz subsequently received a rejection from Fritz Güntzler (CDU), who was his preferred successor. Originally, Merz had planned to officially announce both the personnel change and several other cabinet reshuffles on Friday, but the inability to establish a clear replacement prevented this announcement. The entire affair has drawn sharp criticism within the CDU party.
