Edmundo Bal, national deputy for Ciudadanos, paused in Alicante during a tour of several towns to back the party’s campaign for the 28M municipal and district elections. The visit focused on rallying local support and energizing the campaign ahead of voting day. Bal was accompanied by Jose Miguel Saval, the candidate for the autonomous formations, and by Alicante’s mayor, Adrian Santos Pérez, who announced plans to push for a formal commission of inquiry in Congress. The aim would be to clarify allegations of vote buying related to the Melilla elections, accusations Bal attributes to the Moroccan government behind the scenes.
Ciudadanos aims to keep control of Alicante City Council to prevent extremism
The national representative for Ciudadanos used the Alicante stop to set out the electoral ground and answer questions about the election. The party is positioning itself as a pragmatic alternative to the People’s Party, which has frequently been presented as the “useful vote” option. Bal rejected this framing, arguing that voting for a party purely as a way to block others is not a real path to reforms. He pointed out that although the PP has held absolute majorities at times, he believes nothing meaningful has been reformed. Bal criticized what he described as an inconsistent approach to reforming the Election Law and stressed missing commitments on retirement sustainability, housing policy, and a robust strategic plan beyond limited guarantees. He cited squatting and related issues as elements inadequately addressed under previous administrations.
State campaign
Bal also highlighted that Ciudadanos includes other political voices in national discourse, contending that the party would topple Sánchez through a strong, united front. The assertion was met with skepticism by Ciudadanos MP, who challenged the idea by asking whether the current prime minister has appeared in court regarding municipal or regional matters. Moments later, Bal urged the government to reinvest surplus funds rather than spending them on broad tax initiatives, arguing that such actions could be used to secure votes rather than serve citizens’ needs.
Cs presents the definitive Alicante lineup: Seven independents in the top ten
Bal emphasized a central message against the central government, stating that Spanish voters are discerning and won’t be swayed by grand gestures. Jose Miguel Saval, the candidate for regional president with Ciudadanos, underscored the importance of local leadership and synergy among colleagues to ensure Alicante remains a dynamic, high-performing city. Bal commended the commitment, seriousness, and stand against sectarianism and radicalism as driving forces in the campaign.
Representatives of Ciudadanos arrived at Plaza de los Luceros to present their plan. The visit underscored a broad program calling for a council that unites Urban Planning, Mobility and Transport, and a high quality of life for all residents of Alicante. The approach envisions cross-neighborhood improvements that are sustainable and inclusive.
Regarding measures likely to shape municipal governance, the party highlighted a governance framework that brings together diverse forces to achieve practical improvements in city life, focusing on public spaces, mobility, housing, and civic participation. These aims are pitched as the core of a program designed to strengthen Alicante’s role as a leading urban center while ensuring accountability and transparency in local administration.
Municipal election results for Alicante in 2023 are a reference point for voters. The campaign notes that the 28M elections provide a fresh opportunity to assess leadership, policy delivery, and the ability to translate promises into tangible improvements for residents. [citation attribution: Ciudadanos campaign materials]