PSOE Condemns Racist Remarks by Baza Councilman Amid Growing Controversy
The PSOE has issued a strong condemnation regarding the racist and derogatory comments made by Rafael Azor Rodríguez, the Maintenance Councilman of Baza, Granada. A member of the non-affiliated group formerly associated with Vox, Azor's comments targeted the musical group Camela, which performed at a local festival. In a statement, the municipal socialist group highlighted Azor's original critique of the concert's duration, stating, "The little gypsies have never been very hardworking, and neither did they last night - a little over an hour of concert with the ticket somewhat expensive for what it was. Musicians with thirty years of career can do better." After backlash, he deleted the comment from his profile and replaced it with a milder version, saying, "The third time they come to Baza in thirty years and every time with less desire to work."
In response to criticism, Azor attempted to justify his comments by stating, "I woke up early and went to bed late. An unfortunate comment. I grew up with them and have many friends." However, the PSOE found such comments unacceptable, particularly coming from a municipal representative and member of the local government. They criticized Mayor Pedro Ramos of the PP for remaining silent and not addressing the issue, suggesting that his silence implies complicity in Azor's remarks.
The PSOE urged Ramos to take a stand against such behavior, which they deemed racist, derogatory, and humiliating towards others. They pointed out that while the organization of the Camela concert was under a private company, the city council had provided financial support and that no one from the Town Hall criticized the ticket prices as Azor did in his now-deleted post.
Rafael Azor was initially elected on the Vox list but switched to the non-affiliated group last October to help stabilize the local government led by PP's Pedro Ramos, which also required the backing of Compromiso por Andalucía. The councilman's controversial remarks are not limited to this incident. In March 2021, while he was still affiliated with Vox, he faced criticism for sexist statements during a municipal plenary session on International Women’s Day. His comments included derogatory views on women's interests and capabilities in sports and other activities, leading to further disavowal from his former party.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Azor’s comments reflects deeper societal issues regarding racism and sexism within local political structures. As Spain grapples with these enduring challenges, the call for accountability and a more respectful discourse among public officials remains ever relevant.
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