Popular Party Prepares for Leadership Change Amid Controversy in Valencia

The leader of Spain's Popular Party, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, is looking to downplay the investiture of Juanfran Pérez Llorca, the likely successor to Carlos Mazón as the President of the Valencian Generalitat. In a move that signifies a shift in party dynamics, no national leaders will attend the investiture ceremony in Valencia, indicating it is viewed as a regional matter by the party's central leadership at their Génova headquarters. However, former President Mazón, who has been a key player in the formation of the new government, plans to be present at the event despite there being no obligation for him to attend. Sources close to Mazón reveal that while he agrees to certain modifications in the party structure, he does not favor drastic changes—'adjustments yes, destruction no,' they emphasize. The expectation within the Popular Party is that Pérez Llorca will indeed be elected as the new president, although the ultimate decision still hinges on the far-right Vox party. His supporters affirm that he will use his speech to address significant points in line with Vox's interests, and there is relief that the party has not requested any preliminary theatrics ahead of the vote. While the Valencian wing of the Popular Party is optimistic about Pérez Llorca’s election during the first voting round, his inner circle maintains a more cautious outlook. Although it seems probable that he will assume the presidency, concerns linger about potential last-minute complications from Vox, which might aim to assert its influence or introduce unexpected events during the process. In the wake of Pérez Llorca's anticipated investiture, internal party dynamics are shifting, as Mazón is seen as a remnant of the past. Party sources suggest that following the vote, the new leadership will look to embrace a future unencumbered by Mazón, who is now subject to increasing scrutiny over his actions during the recent DANA storm that impacted Valencia. New revelations suggest that journalist Maribel Vilaplana may have played a role in facilitating Mazón's movements during the storm's aftermath, which could call into question his account of the events. Amidst this backdrop of political maneuvering and controversy, Mazón has remained resolute in his defense, repeatedly denying allegations of negligence during the crisis and asserting that he was available and accountable throughout the situation. As the Popular Party prepares for a new chapter with Pérez Llorca, the political landscape in Valencia remains turbulent, and the influence of Vox will undoubtedly continue to be a decisive factor in the region's governance. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2