The LGBTIQA+ organisations Diversas, Libertrans, and Caminar Intersex have openly articulated their disapproval regarding the potential inclusion of the far-right, in alliance with the Vox political party, in the local government of the Arona City Council (southern Tenerife). This sentiment follows the political instability arising from the breach of agreement that previously existed between the Popular Party, the Canarian Coalition, and Más por Arona.
The organisations, which, due to their “non-partisan nature”, aim to convey meticulous respect for decisions concerning the political stability of the council in Arona, have chosen to react to the reports suggesting the potential involvement of two Vox councillors in the municipal government. Alternatively, the majorities in the plenary session may rely directly or indirectly on the votes from the far-right party.
In this context, the associations from Tenerife caution that “this scenario would signify an unprecedented occurrence in the political landscape of Tenerife, such that a party which is evidently far-right and directly challenges the rights of women, LGBTIQA+ individuals, or migrants could have a decisive influence on the policies enacted in a municipality such as Arona, jeopardising the rights of the LGBTIQA+ community.”
LGBTIQA+ activists have insisted that the Canary Coalition and the Popular Party, alongside all other political entities represented in the Arona City Council, “if they intend to uphold the rights of LGBTIQA+ individuals and women, must ensure that the Arona government does not depend either directly or indirectly on the votes of the far-right. A precautionary barrier should be established to shield vulnerable groups from anything that Vox represents politically at any of its territorial levels.”
Lastly, the Tenerife associations underscore that they will monitor closely the forthcoming political decisions taken regarding this matter in the municipality of Arona. They have asserted that, should Vox become a part of the local government or if plenary majorities depend on their votes, they will sever all ties with the Arona City Council. “The LGBTIQA+ groups of Tenerife will never be complicit in the entry of the far-right into institutions,” they conclude.
