The president of Spain’s Valencia region, Carlos Mazón, has resigned from his post, succumbing to intense public pressure over his administration’s widely criticized response to catastrophic flooding that claimed 229 lives last October.
In an emotional resignation speech, Mazón stated he could “no longer continue,” acknowledging errors in his handling of the crisis while describing the political and media scrutiny he faced as “brutal.” He expressed hope that, in time, the public would differentiate “between a man who has made a mistake and a bad person.”
The politician’s position became untenable following revelations that he was engaged in a lengthy lunch with a journalist as the floodwaters rose. This detail fueled public outrage, crystallized in protest slogans such as “Mud on our hands, blood on his.” For over a year, victims’ groups and opposition parties maintained relentless calls for his resignation, arguing that institutional failures contributed to the high death toll.
Mazón also used his departure to level criticism at Spain’s national government, accusing it of failing to provide sufficient support to the stricken region. He did not clarify whether his resignation would trigger an early regional election or if he would retain his parliamentary seat.
The immediate political future of Valencia now rests with the regional parliament, which must agree on a successor. If no candidate can secure a majority within two months, the region will head to the polls.
A platform representing flood victims announced plans for protests, stating that while Mazón’s departure is noted, the fundamental problems remain unresolved. The group emphasized that the fight for accountability continues as the best tribute to those who lost their lives.