Railway accidents have moved to the center of Spanish politics, sparking fierce competition among political parties. The consequences of these incidents go far beyond the transport sector: they directly affect political stability and public trust in the authorities. With elections approaching in Aragón, every decision and statement faces intense public scrutiny.
Using its absolute majority in the Senate, Partido Popular (PP) has launched a new wave of pressure on Transport Minister Óscar Puente. The move was prompted by recent railway incidents in Adamuz and Gelida, which have drawn widespread attention. On Wednesday, the party plans to bring a resolution to a vote demanding the minister’s immediate resignation, as well as summon the president of the railway infrastructure company Adif, Pedro Marco de la Peña, for a hearing.
A political offensive
PP is not limiting itself to criticism of the minister. In the text of its initiative, the party points to “unsatisfactory management” and a “serious decline in the quality of public services,” emphasizing that the latest accidents are only further evidence of systemic problems. The document also notes that the minister has already been condemned by the Senate three times on other issues, and now, according to the party, his actions and dissemination of inaccurate information after the accidents have only worsened the situation.
Special attention is drawn to the fact that the PP intends to broaden the scope of responsibility, hinting at the possible involvement of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez himself. The resolution contains a direct warning that the political consequences could reach the highest levels of power.
Investigation and hearings
As part of the investigation into the accidents, the party initiated the creation of a special commission to analyze the causes of the incidents in Adamuz and Xirivella. Although this commission has yet to begin its work, the PP is using the existing structure to summon the head of Adif for hearings. The main goal is to obtain comprehensive answers about the state of the rail network and the measures being taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Among the demands are a review and modernization of infrastructure, as well as updates to the safety protocols on the nation’s railways. The PP insists on urgent changes to restore public trust in the system and prevent such incidents from happening again.
Elections and strategy
The escalation is unfolding amid the electoral campaign in Aragón, where the PP is seeking to strengthen its position and prevent the rise of Vox, a party that, according to polls, is doubling its results. The PP leadership is using the Senate as its main platform for political battle, aiming to keep public attention focused on issues of safety and government accountability.
On Monday, the party announced two initiatives at once, underlining its determination to see the investigation through. In the coming days, new hearings and discussions are expected, which could affect not only the outcome of the elections but also the balance of power in the government.
Context and consequences
In recent years, Spain has already faced high-profile railway accidents that sparked large-scale investigations and political debates. Such incidents often led to a review of safety standards and reshuffling of personnel in relevant agencies. Notably, after the 2013 Galicia accident, requirements for the technical condition of trains and infrastructure were tightened. Each new incident again raises questions about the quality of management and official accountability, as well as the need for constant oversight of the country’s transport system.
