He finished an intense term in the Cabildo de Tenerife with a plenary session that reproduced on a small scale, in a grateful half-hour format, four “very complicated” years. A turbulent 2019-2023 period, marked by the health and economic crisis derived from the Covid-19 pandemic and confinement. Several advisers, including the president, described it as “the most difficult stage in all of history.”
The memory of the first motion of no confidence was also noted in the Plenary Hall of the Insular Palace, the one that promoted the socialist to the presidency four years ago Peter Martin to the detriment of the nationalist Carlos Alonso – the only one absent yesterday of the 31 councillors. Martín will be proclaimed president again next Tuesday the 27th for leading the most voted list on 28M, but on July 12 it will be ousted by another motion of censure, which will be signed Canarian Coalition and Partido Popular (18 councilors when 16 supposes the majority) that have already distributed the areas of government. Closing the circle with a taste of deja vu.
The session had up to a minute of silence at the proposal of the non-attached counselor, María José Belda, ratified by all the spokespersons, to dedicate this tribute to the African migrants who these days have lost their lives on the canoe journey along the fearsome Route canary. Martín then moderated the session with the balance of each group. Thanks to friends and strangers and a general sense of “pride and satisfaction” in the work “for Tenerife”.
Belda and David Carballo (Yes We Can Canary Islands) showed some frustration at not having been able to bring the voice of the citizenry to the institution. They appealed to reinforce the participation. Carballo hopes that “this plenary hall is not the one for the shows of some parties” and asked for “height of view.”
Enrique Arriaga (citizens) valued “the work” of these four years and recognized the different circumstances of a mandate that began with the tension of a motion of no confidence. It will not be a problem to return to his job as a Cabildo official.
Efraín Medina (CC) maintained the usual conciliatory tone. He said that “it is gratifying to return to your position after many years as it happened to me in the Candelaria City Council.” He wished everyone luck, those who follow, like him, and those who don’t.
Zaida gonzalez (PP) highlighted those who have been above ideology. Wait that “the next mandate is that of the measures for Tenerife” especially for vulnerable groups.
The PSOE spokesman, Javier Rodríguez Medina, mentioned the minority government. He summarized: “Satisfaction, but much remains to be done, now in opposition.”
The president closed. He wished everyone the best “wherever they are”. He appealed to the defense of Tenerife “that we love so much.”
Applause, kisses, hugs, selfies and group photos to close the session. A lot of dialogue, perhaps the one that has been lacking these four years to agree on far-reaching institutional proposals. Final point. Another stage begins on Tuesday.
