Spain's Transport Minister Oscar Puente has resigned from his post following two fatal train accidents in 2026. The 57-year-old Puente announced his decision after facing nearly four hours of questioning before a parliamentary committee on the night of November 3.

With 115 people killed in these accidents, intense pressure had been mounting from both the opposition and coalition partners demanding that the minister accept responsibility.

Key points:

  • The minister stepped down following mounting pressure after 115 people lost their lives.
  • Responsibility for the Transport Ministry has been temporarily assigned to Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo.
  • The former minister also confirmed that he will not contest the election scheduled for November 29.

Cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister

Announcing a cabinet reshuffle following Puente's resignation, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on November 4 that he had assigned Economy Minister and his deputy, Carlos Cuerpo, to temporarily head the Transport Ministry.

It was later revealed that Puente had taken the decision to resign immediately after the second accident occurred on October 28 in Urda, central Spain, but had kept it secret from the Prime Minister and told only his family.

“Politicians like him bring honour to our country, and they show that we are not all the same. While some merely preach, others give their best,” Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said.

Blow to ruling party ahead of polls

Puente, a lawyer and former mayor who took office as minister in November 2023, faced persistent criticism over maintenance problems and frequent breakdowns. An accident had also taken place on the Madrid-Seville route in February, and the October 28 crash occurred along the very same line.

His departure is reported to be a major blow to the ruling Socialist Party as it prepares for the upcoming election. A staunch ally of the Prime Minister, he was a combative presence on the X social media platform as well as in parliament.

What next?

Puente's resignation is set to take effect once published in the official state gazette, and he has also confirmed that he will not run as a candidate in the forthcoming election on November 29.