Reports indicate that as Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) reorganizes his cabinet, CDU politician Fritz Güntzler is slated to take a position following Transportation Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU). The ARD-Hauptstadtstudio has reported this, following an earlier speculation piece by “Bild” regarding Schnieder’s imminent dismissal. Although Merz is set to address the cabinet restructuring this morning, official confirmation of the dismissal is still pending.
Detlef Neuß, the honorary chairman of the passenger association Pro Bahn, strongly supports the potential dismissal of Schnieder, deeming it a necessary move. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on Saturday, Neuß stated that Schnieder failed to resolve existing issues, particularly within the rail network, and that “he did not convince.” Neuß added that the situation at the rail company has worsened, a decline that is noticed by passengers as well as voters. However, he also acknowledged that Schnieder inherited substantial problems from his predecessors in the CSU.
The focus now shifts to Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla. Neuß stressed that she is under pressure to deliver results and significantly accelerate the company’s corporate overhaul. According to the honorary chairman, one of the most critical areas needing improvement is the excessively slow planning processes within the national rail network.
