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Pope Francis Calls for Investigation into Allegations of Genocide in Gaza
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Mazón Defends Decisions Amid Storm Crisis: 'Enough of Lies and Manipulation'
In a robust defense of his actions during the recent storm crisis, Carlos Mazón, president of the Generalitat, emphatically rejected claims suggesting he was absent from critical decision-making processes on October 29 when the DANA weather phenomenon struck. Speaking to the media upon his arrival at the Integrated Operational Coordination Center (CECOPI), Mazón insisted that his presence was not required for the body to make valid decisions based on incoming information.
Drawing attention to what he termed excessive political attacks and nervousness surrounding the crisis, Mazón urged for an end to the 'lies, deceit, and manipulation' that have surrounded the situation. He highlighted that the confirmation of an imminent risk of the Forata dam overflowing only emerged at around 8 PM, long after CECOPI's technical staff had already prepared to address the situation.
"Enough of lies, enough of deceit! The Consell is in a recovery process that we are committed to wholeheartedly, street by street, town by town," emphasized Mazón, firmly establishing the legitimacy of CECOPI's decision-making authority, of which he claimed he was not a part.
In a pointed rebuttal to recent statements made by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, the Military Emergency Unit (UME), and the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), Mazón questioned the narrative stating he was out of communication during essential moments of the crisis. "It's not true. Why is that narrative being installed?" he asserted, recalling specific instances where he communicated with officials, including a phone call to the mayor of Cullera when he was supposedly out of the communication loop.
Mazón stated that he remained committed to his schedule, which included a lunch with journalist Maribel Vilaplana, as he insisted the role of the president was not vital in triggering emergency responses. "I came on-site to be concerned about the real risk of Forata when we were informed. The body was validly constituted and making decisions based on the information that was submitted to them," he said.
The president further challenged the claims made by the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, who suggested that Mazón had sufficient information during his meal to alert the public. He argued that if the government had forewarning about the potential dam breach as early as 5:30 PM, it should have assumed command and coordinated the response.
As tensions remain high following the tragic circumstances linked to the storm, Mazón concluded his remarks with a stark call for clarity and a unified effort: "If the AEMET had warning information about a dam breach, why did it not take command? We cannot let manipulation overshadow the truth of what occurred. The responsibilities and capabilities of government entities must be transparent and effective, especially in times of crisis."
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