Feb 26 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Mazón, closer to the court

A Spanish judge has pushed for the prosecution of former Valencian president Carlos Mazón in connection with the deadly flooding in Valencia in 2024.

The judge overseeing the investigation into the catastrophic flooding in Valencia in 2024, which resulted in 230 fatalities, has requested the prosecution of former Valencian president Carlos Mazón. Judge Nuria Ruiz Tobarra has submitted a comprehensive 109-page document to the Tribunal Superior de Justicia de la Comunidad Valenciana (TSJCV), outlining the legal grounds for the indictment based on Mazón's position as the highest authority in the regional government during the disaster. The judge argues that, as president of the Generalitat, Mazón bore ultimate responsibility for coordinating the crisis response.

In her findings, Tobarra points to significant "omissive actions" and a "chain of negligence" that contributed to the severity of the disaster on October 29, 2024. The implications of this indictment are profound, as it not only questions the actions—or inactions—of Mazón but also highlights the systemic failures within local governance that potentially exacerbated the tragedy. The case marks a pivotal moment in shedding light on government accountability in crisis situations, particularly in regions vulnerable to catastrophic natural events.

This development could lead to a broader examination of governmental responsibilities and the legal frameworks overseeing crisis management in Spain. As the investigation unfolds, it brings forth crucial discussions regarding political accountability, the role of officials during emergency situations, and public safety measures. Should Mazón face indictment, it may set a precedent for future cases involving political leaders and their obligations to protect citizens during disasters.

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