Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of Valencia on Saturday, braving heavy rain to call for the resignation of regional president Carlos Mazón. The protests were sparked by the government’s handling of the devastating floods on 29 October, which caused extensive damage and loss of life.
The demonstration was organised by more than 200 civil society organisations, trade unions, and activist groups. It marked the fourth major protest in Valencia since the floods. The disaster claimed 224 lives, with three people still missing and two others having died during clean-up efforts.
Discrepancy in attendance figures
According to the Valencian Community government, around 25,000 people attended the protest. However, Valencia’s municipality estimated the turnout at closer to 7,000. Despite differing figures, public engagement remains high. Previous demonstrations saw 130,000 participants in November, followed by 100,000 and 80,000 in subsequent marches.
Protesters make emotional appeals
The march began at 6.00 pm and wound through the city centre as demonstrators carried banners reading “Mazón dimissió” (Mazón resign). Many attendees were directly affected by the floods. A woman who lost her husband and two children made an emotional plea for justice. Meanwhile, another young woman who lost her grandfather marched alongside her, both carrying banners expressing their grief and dissatisfaction.
Education and cultural sectors voice concerns
Teachers and cultural representatives were also present. One teacher from an affected region criticised the slow progress in rebuilding schools. Ninety days after the disaster, many students continue to attend online classes, and several school buildings remain unusable. Protesters frequently called for the resignation of those deemed responsible.
Housing and employment issues persist
A manifesto read during the protest condemned the government’s inaction. Many displaced residents still lack alternative housing, with some families living with relatives for over three months. Workers temporarily unemployed due to the floods are not receiving full compensation, and no investigations have been launched against companies that endangered their employees. The slow distribution of financial aid for the cultural and education sectors was also criticised.
Mazón’s response to the protests
A few hours before the protest, Carlos Mazón issued a brief statement: “I have all the respect, support, and sympathy for all those who are in pain.” However, he criticised what he described as the political exploitation of the disaster: “I do not have the same respect or sympathy for those who try to take advantage of this pain for political gain.”
Growing public dissatisfaction
The protests highlight widespread dissatisfaction with the regional government’s response to the floods and their aftermath. It remains to be seen whether Mazón can withstand the mounting pressure from demonstrators and political opponents or if he will be forced to make concessions to restore public trust in the Valencian Community.