Sunday evening in Adamuz, Córdoba province, ended in tragedy when two trains derailed, leaving the country in shock Monday morning. According to the latest reports, the death toll has risen to 39, with some passengers still unaccounted for. Authorities at all levels have launched investigations and are providing assistance to the victims and their families. A large-scale emergency operation is underway at the scene, with both government and regional officials arriving in the city.
At the center of public attention was a press conference held by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez right in Adamuz. He was accompanied by Andalusian leader Juanma Moreno Bonilla. Together they made statements emphasizing the importance of unity and support during this difficult moment. Against the backdrop of tragedy, politicians from across the spectrum showed a rare solidarity, which did not go unnoticed by the public or the media.
Unity and exclusion
Yet amid this show of unity, one party stood out. Vox, defying the unwritten consensus, chose not to cancel its planned events. Other political forces suspended their public activities in order not to divert attention from the tragedy or create the impression of political gamesmanship in the face of human suffering. Vox’s decision has triggered a wave of criticism and debate in both the media and on social networks.
Journalist Iñaki López did not stand aside. In his public statement, he noted that only one party chose to continue its political agenda despite the catastrophe. In his view, this behavior appears to be an attempt to exploit the tragedy for personal gain. López emphasized that respect and cooperation among authorities are more important than any political differences in such moments.
Public reaction
Vox’s actions sparked a mixed response. Many saw this as a display of political cynicism. On social media, users actively debated how appropriate it is to continue campaigning while the country mourns the victims. Some commentators viewed it as an attempt to stand out amid widespread solidarity, while others interpreted it simply as a lack of empathy.
Meanwhile, the actions of the other parties were seen as a sign of maturity and responsibility. Authorities at all levels, despite political disagreements, united to support those affected and their families. This became a rare example where political competition gave way to human values.
Politics and tragedy
The question of whether it is acceptable to use tragedies for political gain has once again come to the forefront of public debate. By refusing to cancel their events, Vox effectively set itself apart from the rest of the political process. For many, this was a signal: not everyone is willing to put aside political battles in the face of national mourning.
The journalistic community, including Iñaki López, has not hidden its disappointment. Moments like these make it especially clear who is truly willing to engage in dialogue and cooperate, and who prefers to go their own way regardless of the circumstances. Vox’s decision not only drew criticism but also cast doubt on their ability to show solidarity in times of crisis.
An outsider’s perspective
The situation in Adamuz became a litmus test for Spain’s entire political system. In the wake of the tragedy, both the best and worst qualities of politicians were revealed. While some displayed a readiness to collaborate, others chose a path of confrontation. This did not go unnoticed by journalists or ordinary citizens.
The question of acceptable limits in politics has returned to the spotlight. The tragedy in Adamuz showed that society expects its leaders not only to speak, but to take real action. And when some parties reach out while others turn away, it always ignites a storm of emotions and debate.
