Canary Islands President Criticizes PP and Spanish Government Over Migrant Crisis
Fernando Clavijo, the president of the Canary Islands, has publicly criticized the Popular Party (PP) for refusing to engage in meaningful dialogue regarding the resolution of the ongoing migratory crisis in the archipelago. In a recent interview with Cadena Ser, reported by Europa Press, he expressed his frustration at the government for failing to implement a law decree that would enable the extraordinary distribution of unaccompanied migrant minors. Clavijo argues that such a decree would garner sufficient support in Congress, yet the national government has remained silent for over ten days.
The president underscored the government's obligation to grant political asylum to immigrant minors, highlighting that the Canary Islands currently bear the responsibility for 5,812 unaccompanied foreign minors—a figure that has not been seen in the last three decades. Clavijo stated, "We do not understand why they continue to allow this to happen."
His comments included pointed critiques of the national leadership of the PP, which he claims is hiding behind excuses and obstructing necessary agreements that could alleviate this dire humanitarian situation. "It is an absolute irresponsibility that the situation is blocked and that the PP does not provide a worthy response to a humanitarian drama," he stated emphatically, emphasizing that the greater responsibility rests with the government of Spain.
Clavijo called attention to the complicity of both the national government and the PP in perpetuating these issues. "Both are leaving the Canary Islands alone in the face of an unprecedented migratory crisis and all those children," he lamented. He portrayed the situation as a political stalemate, insisting that the government needs to take action as permitted by the Constitution and accusing the PP of impeding progress.
Regarding political support for addressing these migration issues, Clavijo pointed out that all political forces in the Canary Islands' Parliament—except for the far-right party Vox—share a common stance on the migration pact. He reiterated that the primary obstacle lies with the central executive and the national PP's unwillingness to collaborate effectively to resolve the crisis.
As the Canary Islands face increasing demands from the influx of migrants, Clavijo's remarks underscore the urgency for proactive measures and a collaborative approach to address one of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in recent history.
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