The scandal over the illegal demolition of a protected mansion in Getxo has become a true test for the local authorities and could impact the political landscape not only in the city but also in the region. The decision by the municipal assembly to demand the resignation of Mayor Amaia Agirre was an unexpected turn that has already sparked widespread discussion among residents and experts. Issues of trust in the government and the transparency of its administration have once again come to the forefront.
United opposition
For the first time in a long while, all opposition parties in Getxo have acted as a united front. Representatives from Partido Popular, Elkarrekin Podemos, and EH Bildu, despite ideological differences, backed the urgent initiative calling for the mayor’s resignation. The trigger was not only the demolition of the historic building itself, but also allegations against three members of the municipal government accused of abuse of power. Police have already released initial findings from their investigation, further increasing the pressure on the administration.
A key role in this process was played by Podemos representative Xabier Benito, who introduced the emergency resolution. According to him, if the mayor does not resign, the city will face a government paralysis: essential sectors will be left leaderless and the current year’s budget will remain unapproved. The opposition calls the events unfolding the biggest corruption scandal in the municipality’s history.
Breakup of former alliances
The Partido Popular, which previously supported Aguirre’s administration, has now become one of its main critics. Their leader Eduardo Andrade openly stated that after today’s vote, the mayor no longer enjoys majority support. He emphasized that it was their votes that once made it possible to approve strategic plans and budgets, but now those former alliances have collapsed. This year, the budget was not even brought up for discussion due to a lack of agreement.
EH Bildu has also stepped up its criticism, pointing not only to the personal responsibility of the mayor but also to the leadership style of the entire PNV party over the past year and a half. According to their representative Mikel Bildosola, all opposition proposals, including appeals to the prosecutor’s office and calls for an audit in urban planning, were rejected. Their own resolution at the session did not pass, but the overall mood remains unchanged — change is essential.
Response from the authorities
Despite the pressure, Amaia Aguirre has no intention of stepping down. She called the situation a “political witch hunt” and stressed that the accusations against her have not been confirmed in court. According to her, the main task now is to maintain stability and continue working for the good of the city. She was supported by PNV representative Janire Ocio, and the assembly hall was packed not only with residents but also with former mayors, party activists, and councilors from other cities.
Deputy Mayor and Socialist Party representative Carmen Díaz also opposed the resignation, arguing that it would only lead to a management crisis. She suggested that the opposition initiate a vote of no confidence, but the chances of success are minimal due to the lack of a unified replacement candidate. Socialists see the opposition’s actions as an attempt to score political points ahead of the elections.
Political consequences
Political analysts note that the situation in Getxo could set a precedent for other municipalities, although it is unlikely to have a direct impact on regional or national elections. According to experts, voters tend to choose differently at various levels, and events in one city rarely affect the bigger picture. Nevertheless, the scandal has already shifted the balance of power in the local council and could lead to unexpected new alliances.
In the coming months, Getxo residents will be watching events unfold, as the question of trust in the authorities and decision-making transparency remains unresolved. The city stands on the brink of change, and the outcome of this confrontation is still unclear.
