Munich, September 13 – Six months after his departure from Munich City Hall, former Mayor Dieter Reiter (SPD) is relishing his newfound freedom. The 68-year-old told the “tz” newspaper, with an eye on the upcoming Oktoberfest, “The good thing is, I don’t need bodyguards anymore. I cycle here and don’t have to announce myself. This new freedom definitely has its charm.”
Reiter Embraces Munich Life and Oktoberfest
Reiter, who served as Munich’s mayor for twelve years, has received several invitations for Oktoberfest, including to the Augustiner, Paulaner, and Bräurosl beer tents. Growing up in Munich, not far from the Theresienwiese, Reiter has many childhood memories associated with the festival. He particularly recalls the construction site on the Theresienwiese and his first carousel rides as a child.
Still Recognized, Despite Leaving Office
Despite no longer being in office, Reiter is not yet able to move around incognito. He is still frequently approached by the public. “When I walk across Marienplatz, I still take about five selfies with tourists who don’t even know that I’m no longer the mayor,” he stated.
Controversy and Political Departure
Shortly before the municipal elections in March, Reiter faced pressure due to his secondary activities for FC Bayern. He had not obtained approval from the city council for his positions on the administrative board and, since February, on the supervisory board of FC Bayern. He subsequently resigned from both positions and donated the associated earnings of 90,000 euros to social projects.
However, this did not save his election campaign. In the run-off election on March 22, he surprisingly lost significantly to his challenger Dominik Krause (Greens) and announced his withdrawal from municipal politics.
Reiter’s departure marks a new chapter for him, allowing him to experience Munich from a different perspective, free from the responsibilities and public scrutiny that came with his long tenure as mayor. His reflections highlight the contrast between his former public life and his current private enjoyment of the city he once led.
