Valencia is once again gripped by tensions over the aftermath of the devastating DANA, which claimed 230 lives. Relatives of the victims and social activists gathered outside the regional parliament to protest against the actions of former head of government Carlos Mazón and his team. This time, they brought sacks of coal—a symbol of their anger and a rebuke to officials accused of negligence and inaction.
The protest took place as preparations are underway for another mass demonstration scheduled for this Saturday. Organizers are calling on all residents to join the march under the slogan “Mazón to prison,” demanding that the former president immediately resign his parliamentary seat and appear in court in Catarroja, where an investigation into the tragedy is ongoing.
Accusations and demands
Movement participants make no secret of their disappointment: according to them, neither Mazón nor his successor Juanfran Pérez Llorca has done anything to address the situation or even acknowledge past mistakes. Moreover, protestors believe the new government continues to protect former officials, and some ministers, such as Susana Camarero, José Antonio Rovira, and Miguel Barrachina, allegedly put personal interests ahead of public safety on the day of the disaster.
The families of the deceased and injured insist: they will not allow what happened to be forgotten. According to Rosa Álvarez, head of the DANA Victims Association, the pain of loss is felt especially acutely now, on the eve of the New Year holidays. She called on everyone who cares to join them at the upcoming demonstration and not let the authorities ‘turn the page,’ as has happened in other tragic cases.
The families speak out
Toñi García, who lost her husband and daughter in the disaster, delivered an especially emotional address. She stressed that for the victims’ families, there is no joy or celebration—only pain and a sense of injustice. According to her, the new authorities’ promises remain just words, and Mazón’s appointment as chair of the parliamentary commission feels like an insult to all those affected.
García noted that while most people are preparing for Christmas, for the bereaved families this is the hardest time. She called on the people of Valencia not to leave them alone and to join them in taking to the streets.
The stance of public organizations
More than two hundred groups have joined the movement, ranging from trade unions to civic initiatives. According to Beatriu Cardona, representatives of these organizations believe that a year after the tragedy authorities are trying to create an impression of normality, while in reality the problems remain unresolved. Many schools are still housed in temporary buildings, and people with disabilities are unable to leave their homes due to broken elevators.
Alexandra Usó, another organizer, emphasized that each march is not only an act of solidarity but also a demand for justice and the restoration of the rights of those affected. She stressed that local residents do not deserve such treatment from the authorities.
A look to the future
Ruth Moyano, representing the Committees for Emergency and Reconstruction (CLERC), stated that the region’s recovery must be based on principles of safety, dignity, and respect for life, rather than economic interests. She called on officials to reconsider their priorities and put people first.
Ahead of another mass rally in Valencia, tensions remain high. Families of the victims and their supporters refuse to back down, demanding resignations and accountability for all those they believe allowed the tragedy to occur and did nothing to prevent it.
