The judge overseeing the investigation into the authorities’ actions during the devastating dana has granted the request of Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Partido Popular (PP), to testify via videolink. The hearing is scheduled for January 9, and Feijóo will be able to connect from his office in the Congress of Deputies. This decision was made in accordance with Article 412 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which allows politicians to testify from official premises.
Additionally, the judge again asked Feijóo to voluntarily provide all WhatsApp messages he exchanged with Carlos Mazón, who at the time was president of the Generalitat Valenciana. This concerns conversations from October 29, 2024, at the height of the crisis caused by extreme weather.
In the official notice, the judge emphasized that submitting the full correspondence is essential for an objective assessment of the circumstances and the timeline of events. She noted this is the only way to accurately establish the content and context of exchanges between the two politicians during this critical moment.
Court’s position
A judge from Catarroja noted that other officials with similar privileges had previously appeared in person for interrogations. For example, the delegate of the government in the Comunitat Valenciana, Pilar Bernabé, attended court in person despite the distance and inconvenience. Nevertheless, the judge considered it appropriate to grant Feijoo’s request, citing legal provisions that allow for this interrogation format.
At the same time, Feijoo retains the right to attend court in person if he deems it necessary. The hearing is scheduled for January 9 at 9:30 a.m., and the judge emphasized that the witness may choose the format.
Importance of the correspondence
The case pays particular attention to the messages exchanged between Feijoo and Mazón on the night of the natural disaster. The judge believes all correspondence, including Feijoo’s responses, is necessary for an objective analysis of the situation. This will help establish not only the content but also the timing of the politicians’ reactions to the events.
The case file already includes individual messages sent by Mazón to Feijoo during the critical hours. However, the court insists on obtaining the full dialogue to avoid taking phrases out of context and to provide a complete picture of the events.
Voluntary transfer of data
The judge specifically emphasized that providing the correspondence remains a voluntary decision. In her ruling, she noted that Feijóo had himself expressed a willingness to cooperate with the investigation and assist in clarifying the case. At the same time, the judge reminded all parties of the seriousness of the circumstances under review and the importance of establishing every detail of what happened.
The document also states that the court must verify the authenticity and completeness of the data provided in order to rule out any doubts about the content and timing of the messages.
Case background
The case concerns an investigation into the actions of authorities during extreme weather events that caused severe destruction and loss of life. The focus is on the decisions made by the leadership of the Valencian Community on the night of October 29 to 30, 2024. The correspondence between Feijóo and Mazón is considered a key element for understanding how authorities responded to the crisis.
As part of the investigation, the court is also examining the actions of other officials and evaluating the effectiveness of emergency services. Special attention is being paid to how quickly and efficiently both regional and central government leaders responded to the situation.
Next steps
The court continues to gather evidence and question witnesses to establish all the circumstances of the incident. Feijóo’s testimony, along with the messages he has provided, is expected to shed light on the details of the decision-making during this critical moment. Investigators emphasize that the case is being conducted in full compliance with legal standards and with the utmost thoroughness.
It remains unclear whether Feijóo will submit the entire exchange or only select messages. The judge left the choice to him, reminding him that providing the data is voluntary and highlighting the importance of cooperation in uncovering the truth.
