Policy expands beyond the Valencian palaces, with a substantial portion of the agenda focused on the Alicante region. The newly appointed vice-president of the Valencian Government, Aitana Mas from Crevillent, steps into the Generalitat’s second rank, signaling continuity with the policies of her predecessor, Mónica Oltra, while also aiming to carve out her own footprint. Her priorities include promoting family reconciliation, decentralization, supporting the Tajo-Segura water transfer, strengthening loyalty within the coalition, and expanding public services and social rights. These themes defined her first public remarks after the formal portfolio handover. It marked the first administrative move since Oltra announced her resignation about ten days earlier.
Aitana Mas assumed office early at the Palau de la Generalitat, with most non-agricultural ministers present at the UN Oceans Conference in Lisbon, and alongside Josefina Bueno, the Minister of Universities. Mas asserted that she would advocate for social and ecological justice. Shortly after, in her capacity as vice-president and minister, she attended the Cortes control session. Later that afternoon, she outlined the strategic axes that would guide her new responsibilities, speaking from the headquarters of the ministry known as the Palau de Valeriola.
Aitana Mas: “Botànic in Cortes enjoys excellent relations, and I aim for the same in Government”
Crevillent’s native daughter walked down the stairs clasping Oltra’s hand, a gesture that reflected a long friendship within Compromís and the Poble Valencià Initiative. Attendees greeted the moment with lengthy applause, interpreted by many as a show of support for the former vice president, who stepped down after facing accusations tied to the handling of a ministry during a case involving the sexual abuse of a minor. The scene featured tears and embraces. Critics noted a lack of broad representation among government colleagues. It was also acknowledged that the absence of the Generalitat president Ximo Puig, who, according to sources, often does not attend portfolio handovers, underscored the moment as a display of Botànic unity that the government sought to project during the day. The political upheaval that culminated in Oltra’s departure and the ensuing tensions between Socialists and Valencians appeared to set the tone for ongoing debates as the legislature neared its end. In this milieu, the opposition’s noise seemed likely to persist as the administration faced scrutiny about potential ministry changes, with Oltra’s resignation acting as a backdrop.
“I want to push for decentralization across the country. Being vice-president should align with my Crevillentí roots, Alicante, and the southern region,” Mas stated, emphasizing support for public policies that reflect regional diversity. She added, “No region is the same, and the southern areas are disproportionately affected by poverty. Reversing that trend must be a priority, and I expect the draft gender equality bill to play a key role in this effort.” She also noted that her background as a mother could contribute to strengthening the Botànic Government.
In her address, Mas urged colleagues to pursue more than effective governance; she called for steadfast mutual loyalty within the coalition. She was asked to make a decision within a week regarding investigations that surfaced allegations about potential ministry changes linked to Oltra’s resignation, and did not rule out staff terminations if necessary.
“I am not your substitute, because you are irreplaceable”
Aitana Mas passionately defended the work of Mónica Oltra, the former deputy in the Valencian Government. “I am not your replacement because you were irreplaceable. I say this not only out of respect and friendship, but as a recognition of all you achieved. Thank you for your tireless effort and unwavering commitment. Thank you for changing the history of this small country.”
Notes from observers emphasize Mas’s commitment to decentralization and her belief in governance that respects regional realities. Her stance reflects a broader intent to sustain Botànic’s governing coalition while navigating the political dynamics that accompany leadership transitions within the Valencian administration. The ongoing discourse in the Cortes and the broader political arena suggests a period of adjustment as the government seeks to reinforce unity amid public scrutiny.