Justice Minister Gabriela Bravo asserted on Thursday that she does not intend to see the resignation of Generalitat vice-president Mónica Oltra and did not send any message to anyone that would signal otherwise. The minister spoke after presenting a municipal ordinance model aimed at abolishing prostitution, prohibiting and sanctioning demand, and acknowledging women as victims of gender-based violence.
The remarks came as Valencia’s mayor and Compromís co-spokesperson, Joan Ribó, criticized Bravo’s prior statements regarding Oltra’s situation and possible resignation. Ribó suggested Bravo should not be considered a model of corporate loyalty and noted that he has faced legal action and would weigh his own position carefully.
Bravo told COPE that each official makes decisions based on personal values and the credibility of the institution they represent. She indicated that in a situation where credibility is at stake, it is normal to reflect on what could happen. She also addressed personal questions about standing with colleagues in times of controversy, noting that publicly attacking the Botànic government and campaigning against Valencia could jeopardize the public office. She added that if a change were necessary, signals would be seen, and the public would understand the reasoning behind it in due course, a message she conveyed on social media.
Bravo escalates pressure on Oltra: from push to exit door
When Ribó’s criticism was raised, Bravo explained that she did not issue statements about Mónica Oltra. She described her comments as a personal stance taken in light of potential accusations and the risk of harming the institution’s credibility.
She stressed that facing a difficult scenario, her personal view was stated without directing it at any individual, and that she would consider how best to protect an institution that deserves careful safeguarding. She emphasized that no message had been sent to any government colleague or to suggest Oltra should resign. The goal, she said, was to preserve democratic health by distinguishing between criminal and political responsibility.
Bravo also expressed disappointment that after exercising fundamental freedoms of expression and thought, she faced excessive criticism colored by sexist prejudices. She maintained that opponents have a right to voice their opinions, but she lamented becoming a focal point of gender-based bias, particularly from parties on the left. Such commentary she described as hard to stomach.
Regarding any potential restructuring of the Consell, Bravo limited her remarks to pointing out that the president holds the authority to decide and expressed confidence that the best decisions would be made with citizens in mind.