Valencia Residents Demand Accountability After Tragic Storm Devastation
A march under the banner 'Mazón dimissió' began this afternoon at Valencia's Plaza del Ayuntamiento, expressing the public's demand for the resignation of Carlos Mazón, the president of the Generalitat, along with his government. This demonstration comes a month after the devastating DANA storm impacted the province, leaving towns and cities in ruins and prompting public outrage over the perceived failure of the government to facilitate effective recovery efforts.
Anna Oliver, a spokesperson for social entities, opened the event by declaring that the government is 'morally and ethically incapacitated for the reconstruction' of affected areas, emphasizing that despite the passage of a month, the community remains traumatized and devastated. 'We are here because Mazón's recent presentation in Les Corts was nothing short of shameful,' she criticized. 'He did not offer an apology, nor did he provide sensible explanations for the situation we face; he only promised empty rhetoric.'
The frustrations voiced in the march highlight a larger sentiment among citizens, who are accusing their leaders of neglect. Protesters chanted statements such as 'Mazón dimisión,' 'Mazón murderer,' and proclaimed that while the community suffers, the government engages in self-serving activities. Many feel abandoned as they continue to cope with the aftermath of the storm.
Alexandra Usó, another spokesperson, lamented the lack of timely aid a month after the crisis, asserting that the condition of local municipalities resembles that of a 'third world' country. 'People are suffering, and help has not arrived,' she pointed out, further reinforcing the call for accountability from Mazón’s administration.
As the march progressed, they carried signs that bore heavy and critical slogans aimed at the government, including 'Mazón to prison' and 'Justice,' accompanied by black ribbons signifying mourning. Names of municipalities and the number of casualties were prominently displayed, a somber reminder of the human cost of the tragedy.
Representatives from various affected communities joined the demonstration, with individuals expressing solidarity by wearing boots to honor the deceased. The route selected for the march stretches through the heart of Valencia, concluding at the plaza of the Mare de Déu for a reading of a manifesto. Participants included a variety of voices: a 112 service worker, a teacher, a business owner from Algemesí, a resident of Picassent, and others deeply impacted by the storm.
In addition to the demonstration in Valencia, protests have also been organized in Elche, Alicante, showcasing the widespread dissatisfaction across the region. This event has been mobilized by 58 organizations with the support of an additional 158 groups, involving a diverse array of civic and social entities such as Acció Cultural del País Valencià and the Intersindical Valenciana. The municipal outcry continues, insisting on dignity, justice, and reparations for the victims and their families.
As the sentiment grows louder in the streets, so too does the urgent call for change and accountability among the leadership in Valencia, as residents refuse to let their cries for justice go unheard.
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