For the past week, six activists have been engaged in a hunger strike, setting up campaign stands outside the Church of La Concepción in La Laguna, Tenerife, calling for a tourism halt in the Canary Islands. They are also demanding the immediate cessation of construction at the Hotel de la Tejita and the Cuna del Alma urban development.
“The hunger strikers’ vital signs are showing abnormalities that could severely impact their health. They are currently experiencing hypotension, hypoglycemia, significant weight loss, all of which are worrying,” stated a nurse providing care for them during a press briefing.
The situation is dire as the strike could lead to irreversible neurological damage or even death, especially after enduring extreme weather conditions for six days already. The scorching heat has exacerbated their health conditions, and their living conditions are described as “challenging,” the nurse warned.
Despite the pleas, the La Laguna City Council has yet to respond to requests for an ambulance or immediate medical aid at the site. With each passing day, the risk to their lives escalates, with potential long-term health repercussions growing more likely.
The group known as Canary Islands Sold Out has directly called on the President of the Canary Islands Government, Fernando Clavijo, to halt the “illegal megaprojects damaging our island and to implement a tourism freeze.”
“Mr. Clavijo, you have the power to rectify this situation. You cannot ignore the ramifications of the predatory and speculative model you vehemently support, which has led us to this juncture. You previously stood firm in defending unlawful tourist projects, even awarding accolades to hotels facing demolition. As public discontent grew, your tone shifted from common sense appeals to placating speeches to mask your unease.”
Recently, you mentioned the necessity of reviewing the tourism model and did not rule out the idea of a tourist tax. Acknowledging the concerning wealth disparity in the Canary Islands, you even participated in demonstrations like a regular citizen. The time for placation is over, it’s time to respect the people,” the group articulated.
The urgency of the situation does not only pertain to the hunger strikers’ health but to the future of the Canary Islands, which is precariously balanced. Therefore, “if Mr. Clavijo continues to turn a blind eye and neglect his duties, we urge the people of the Canary Islands to rally behind our cause and demand accountability.”
