In recent days, significant developments have surfaced from the investigation into the DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) disaster that struck the Valencia region on October 29, 2024, resulting in over 220 fatalities and widespread devastation. The scrutiny has intensified on Carlos Mazón, the President of the Generalitat Valenciana, leading to escalating public protests demanding his resignation.

Investigation Findings

Recent investigations have unveiled critical lapses in the management of the DANA crisis:

Delayed Response: It was revealed that President Mazón arrived late to an emergency coordination meeting on the day of the disaster. Security footage confirms his arrival at the Integrated Operational Coordination Center (CECOPI) at 8:28 p.m., contradicting earlier statements about his timely presence.

Inadequate Communication: On the day of the disaster, Mazón reportedly communicated with only three mayors from areas not severely affected by the floods, highlighting a lack of engagement with the most impacted communities.

Operational Failures: Testimonies from officials, including José Ángel Núñez, head of Climatology at AEMET, pointed to significant coordination failures during the emergency response, exacerbating the disaster’s impact.

Public Protests

The revelations have sparked widespread public outrage:

• Mass Demonstrations: Approximately 30,000 people marched in Valencia, marking the fifth protest in four months, demanding Mazón’s resignation due to perceived mismanagement of the crisis.
• Unified Outcry: Victims’ associations, affected families, and various civic groups have consistently called for accountability, criticizing the lack of timely alerts and government support during the disaster.

¡Quinta histórica manifestación contra el escándalo DANA! Los criminales siguen impunes. Los problemas estructurales del País Valencià son los mismos y empeorados.

Vídeo de @eva_manez pic.twitter.com/zx5vDXrb4t

— Accountable (@Accountable2019) March 1, 2025

Political Repercussions

The political fallout has been significant:

• Calls for Resignation: Both opposition parties and members within Mazón’s own party have urged him to step down, citing loss of public trust and leadership failures.
• Potential Successor: María José Catalá, the Mayor of Valencia, has emerged as a potential candidate to replace Mazón, reflecting internal party deliberations on leadership changes.

As investigations proceed and public dissent grows, the pressure mounts on President Mazón to address these concerns and consider his position amidst the crisis.

Will Valencia’s Political Crisis Overshadow the Fallas Festival?

With the Fallas festival in Valencia coming up, many worry that the political turmoil could affect the celebrations. The festival, which draws thousands of visitors, is a major event for the city. However, ongoing protests and uncertainty could take attention away from the festivities. Many believe it would be best to settle the issue before Fallas begins so that the focus stays on the event rather than politics.

What do you think about the latest developments in the DANA investigation and the protests against Mazón? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Main image: X/@bertrandmyd