The Fort Worth Press - CSIF Union Demands Renfe and Adif Leadership Overhaul Following Transport Minister's Resignation

The CSIF union has called for a restructuring of leadership at Spain’s state-owned rail operators, Renfe and Adif, following the resignation of Transport Minister Óscar Puente. The union stated that it is now time to address the "top-down" appointments within these organizations, which it claims were made without sufficient professional oversight.

CSIF emphasized that it was the first organization to demand Puente’s resignation after a fatal train accident in Urda, Toledo. In a statement reported by Europa Press, the union argued for legal reforms to curb political appointments and ensure that public enterprises are led by qualified professionals rather than political appointees.

"There must be professionalization of companies and public administrations so that the most prepared people are at the forefront," the union said upon learning of the minister's departure.

The resignation has triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties. The People’s Party (PP) asserted that Puente’s exit was driven by polling data rather than accountability to victims. Citing a survey by the Center for Sociological Research (CIS) directed by José Félix Tezanos, the PP claimed the minister did not resign out of dignity or concern for victims but due to unfavorable polls.

"He will be dismissed at the ballot box," the party stated in a communique. "116 deaths demand truth, explanations, and accountability at the highest level." The PP identified former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos and Puente as responsible for placing infrastructure management in political hands.

Vox leader Santiago Abascal took a more direct approach on social media X, accusing Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of hiding behind his subordinates. Abascal listed several figures, including Ábalos, former Interior Minister Koldo García, and others, as part of what he called a "criminal organization." He urged Sánchez to resign and submit to judicial investigation, stating that only a massive voter response could hold the government accountable.

Despite the political fallout, CSIF warned that the crisis would not end with Puente’s departure. The union stressed that public trust in railway safety can only be restored through complete explanations, full accountability, and guarantees that such incidents will not recur.

D.Johnson--TFWP