The Valencia branch of the People’s Party (PP) has found itself at the center of political change after Carlos Mazón announced his decision not to run in the 2027 elections. The move came after an incident at a memorial service for disaster victims in Valencia, where Mazón faced sharp criticism from those affected. Following this, he chose to retreat to Alicante and take a break to consider his next steps.
Lively discussions about the party’s future leadership have begun internally. Mazón made it clear that he has no intention of returning as a candidate and suggested Vicente Mompó—currently head of the Valencia Provincial Council—as a potential successor. This announcement energized party members, as what’s at stake is not only the leadership but also the strategic direction for the coming years.
This week is packed with important events on the PP Valencia political calendar. Journalist Maribel Vilaplana is expected to testify in court, the Government Council will meet, and a possible third cabinet reshuffle of the year may take place. Among the likely changes is Francisco Gán Pampols stepping down as vice president, with his responsibilities expected to transfer to Vicente Martínez Mus.
Behind closed doors, party members held an informal meeting where Mazon’s colleagues warned him not to repeat the fate of Rita Barberá, the former mayor of Valencia, who was once forced to step down amid a corruption scandal. Although Mazon is not implicated in the disaster investigation, he chose to take a pause and promised to announce his decision later.
Leadership battle: Who will be the new face of the PP in Valencia?
Party leaders are currently considering Vicente Mompó as the most likely successor, but other possible contenders include María José Catalá, the current mayor of Valencia and regional parliament member. The final decision will be made at the regional congress, where national leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo will play a key role.
Recently, Vicente Mompó has been active in the media, emphasizing that the party’s future depends on the will of local residents. He also points out that Mazon is linking his own future to the process of restoring autonomy after recent upheavals.
Uncertainty remains within the party, but one thing is clear: a period of change and fresh challenges lies ahead for the Valencian PP. Who will lead the party and what direction it will take will become apparent in the coming months.
