Schleswig-Holstein: New President Torp warns of debt trap!

Schleswig-Holstein: New President Torp warns of debt trap!

Schleswig-Holstein is experiencing an exciting new beginning with Silke Torp at the head of the State Audit Office. She has a challenging career behind her: Previously, as State Secretary for Finance in the Ministry of Finance, she ensured that the state's finances were kept under control. Since January 1, 2026, she has taken on responsibility as President of the State Audit Office. She sees herself as an independent, non-partisan and neutral controller who aims to uncover undesirable developments in politics. However, assessments of the new president are not entirely positive.

The budget situation in Schleswig-Holstein is critical: with a financing gap of around one billion euros by 2026, new debt is needed, which is possible through relaxed debt rules. Torp emphasizes that this cannot be a permanent solution. Instead, it calls for sustainable consolidation and spending discipline in order to reduce the investment backlog, especially in infrastructure. The government is planning to save 200 million euros for 2026, but this will only have a short-term effect Boyen's Media reported.

Criticism and concerns about neutrality

Her appointment is accompanied by concerns: SPD parliamentary group leader Serpil Midyatli questions the necessary distance from Torp's previous work in the Ministry of Finance and announces resistance. The FDP financial politician Annabell Krämer is also critical of the change, although she appreciates Torp's abilities. She blames the financial policy of the current government for the rising debts and criticizes the high financial burdens that society could face.

Nevertheless, following her election, Torp emphasizes that she was responsible for fair taxation and will manage finances wisely. Her predecessor, Gaby Schäfer, held the office for over twelve years and has now handed over a solid foundation on which Torp wants to build, even if the challenges are great.

Duties of the State Audit Office

The State Audit Office plays a central role in monitoring the state's budget and economic management. Loud Landesrechnungshof-sh.de He not only monitors the state's financial administration, but also advises the state parliament and the state government on questions of budget management. In the course of recent reforms, financial control has evolved from a mere monitoring role to a supporting role that also looks at the design of the budget process.

Parliament's need for information has grown and now covers all areas of government activity. Torp is faced with the challenge of further developing the State Audit Office in a future-oriented manner, precisely at a time when it is important to get out of financial difficulties. Your experience and previous career will be crucial. So while Schleswig-Holstein is heading into turbulent times, it remains to be seen how Torp will fulfill her role and whether she can bring a breath of fresh air to the country's financial policy.