LGBTIQA+ organisations are worried about a potential shift in local government that could bring far-right politics to Arona and Granadilla de Abona in the south of Tenerife.
Groups like Diversas, Libertrans, Aperttura, and Caminar Intersex are opposing a vote of no confidence against the current administration. This motion is supported by Coalition Canaria (CC), the Popular Party (PP), and the far-right party VOX, which together would govern about 140,000 people in southern Tenerife, including important towns like Granadilla and Arona.
The vote of no confidence was confirmed yesterday, Wednesday, with spokesperson Marcos Antonio Rodríguez involved. Although he hinted that he might leave the PP, he ultimately signed the motion to remove Socialist Mayor Jennifer Miranda and replace her with Domingo Regalado (CC).
These LGBTIQA+ groups, which usually avoid political issues, felt compelled to speak out because they believe VOX's policies could negatively impact women, migrants, and the LGBTIQA+ community. They are requesting an urgent meeting with Coalition Canaria’s leaders, urging them to stop collaborating with the far-right party.
The vote on the motion is scheduled for March 26.th, and activists have warned that if it passes, they will cut ties with the local government but will continue to support residents independently. They plan to end any joint projects with the council to protect marginalised communities.
Coalition Canaria’s decision to partner with VOX has raised concerns, especially since party leader Fernando Clavijo, the president of the Canary Islands, recently said that VOX "cannot be trusted" due to their controversial views. This move marks the third partnership between CC and VOX in the Canary Islands, despite past promises not to ally with extreme parties.
