Assemblea expresses its solidarity with the people of Valencia over the severe consequences of the recent ‘cut-off low’ weather phenomenon known locally as DANA (Catalan acronym for ‘high-altitude isolated low pressure system’). We mourn the loss of the many lives taken by the storm, as well as the extensive material destruction. We condemn both the lack of foresight from the authorities in the face of the storm’s severity and the subsequent appalling management of the disaster.
We recall that the conservative Popular Party (PP), at the request of the extreme right-wing party Vox, eliminated the Valencian Emergency Unit in November 2023, arguing it was an “unnecessary public expense.” These decisions, aimed at dismantling local governance, have resulted in increased devastation and suffering.
Civil Protection alarms sounded late on the evening of October 29, when the cold drop was already battering many towns, leading to unavoidable chaos, with people trapped on roads and flooded buildings, and workplaces swamped with workers inside, left with no escape or assistance options.
We watched in astonishment as citizens were not asked to shelter at home and instead were allowed to go to work or attend classes, thus getting exposed to extremely dangerous situations.
Days later, many people remain trapped at home without power, water or food, which puts their lives at serious risk. Likewise, basic needs are still not met in hospitals or elderly care homes, among other facilities.
The PP and Vox-led government of the Generalitat Valenciana, headed by Carlos Mazón, has handled this freak storm in a criminally negligent manner.
For all these reasons, we demand the immediate resignation of Carlos Mazón and his government.
The demeaning treatment of the region, as of now suffering with 214 deaths and over 1900 people missing, foreshadows a final toll that may be far more tragic.
The devastating impact of this storm, like in other emergency situations, underscores the need for sovereign, localised management that faithfully responds to the realities of the Valencian Country.
In a context where Spanish policies disregard us with indifference and contempt, the lack of effective resources and adequate support to face these crises with maximum protection for our people and land becomes evident.
Let us not forget that the ongoing disregard for climate change, along with mass, haphazard construction—expanding airports, cities, roads—is turning our land into a victim of environmental exploitation.
We pledge to continue working towards a future where our territories can gain the dignity and sovereignty they deserve.
We call on everyone to act in solidarity and provide the support that the Valencian Country urgently needs.
Solidarity with the people of Valencia!