On the day of the tragic storm that left 230 dead in Valencia in 2024, Carlos Mazón was absent for five hours while attending to personal matters, raising questions about his actions during a critical emergency.
On October 29, 2024, the tragic DANA storm caused significant fatalities in Valencia, claiming the lives of 230 individuals. During this catastrophic event, Carlos Mazón, then president of the Generalitat, reportedly spent five hours away from his duties, during which he was in Ventorro with journalist Maribel Vilaplana. The alarming absence of the president during such a crisis has led to considerable scrutiny, especially given the magnitude of the disaster unfolding at the time.
Witnesses have confirmed that Mazón's bodyguards, who were tasked with his protection, did not see him for the entire duration of his absence. One of the bodyguards has provided testimony to the judge investigating the incident, Nuria Ruiz Tobarra, asserting that he heard nothing related to the emergency on that fateful day. This raises concerns about the communication protocols in place for individuals in high-ranking positions, particularly during emergencies when their leadership is crucial.
The judge's investigation also aims to clarify whether there were any discussions between Mazón and the former councilor Salomé Pradas, who is currently facing legal charges alongside her former deputy. The implications of this investigation extend beyond Mazón's personal accountability, touching on the broader responsibility of government officials during natural disasters and the necessity for effective crisis management in order to safeguard public safety.
