Survival guides often advise remaining still when faced with a potential bear encounter in the woods. PSPV-PSOE does not have a loose bear in its congress processes, but the council can still act to prevent verbal clashes from other contenders. Taking the first step can yield the same outcome. That’s why no one makes any bold moves. Everyone scans the room, waiting for the other candidates to reveal their cards, and then the leadership game can begin.
There are two likely contenders for secretary general who seem to be pursuing this strategy: PSPV leader Carlos Fernández Bielsa in Valencia and his counterpart Alejandro Soler in Alicante. Messages circulating around the mayor of Mislata echo the same warning to those around the leader of Elche, urging patience. Likewise, sources close to Bielsa indicate that other candidates are in a period of thoughtful consideration until after Christmas, with the expectation that they will also act later.
Attention centers on the name discussed between Ximo Puig and Ferraz: Minister Diana Morant. Yet the former mayor of Gandia has not confirmed whether he will take on the leadership of the Valencian federation. It seems likely he will, given recent moves involving PSOE Organizing Secretary Santos Cerdán in Valencia and Alicante, signaling approval from Pedro Sánchez, but no firm decision has been announced yet.
“Compatible”
Even Puig himself and close allies such as José Muñoz, Secretary of the Organization and recently elected Ombudsman in the Cortes, say Morant has not yet been named as the future leader of the party. When questioned about this yesterday, Muñoz declined to comment on whether Morant should serve as secretary general while holding a ministerial post and a seat in the Spanish Government.
“It is legally permissible,” Muñoz noted, adding that he would not evaluate the situation further since any interpretation could be seen as support or opposition for the former Gandia mayor. A day earlier, Puig told Morant that she was a highly valuable person who would make a strong candidate, but also added, “Just like everyone else.”
Rumors abound about a unity candidacy that could sidestep primaries around Morant. This is the wish voiced by sources from the current regional administration and from influential party factions in Castellón, where the underground talks are focused. These discussions also serve to gauge strength and test potential support for future steps.
Negotiations for a harmonious candidacy are affected by the idea that Ferraz may still impose a name. The rejection of the regional structure that shapes the federation’s future is repeatedly voiced, especially by the provincial directorates of Valencia and Alicante. Yet the so-called Ximism circle, whose leader is nearing departure, insists that PSPV militants will decide their own fate.
“Intense” Christmas
Valencian federation militants will vote yes or no on an extraordinary congress that will elect delegates to attend the conclave where Puig’s successor will be chosen. If more than one candidate surpasses the endorsement threshold to participate, primaries would be held several weeks before the convention, scheduled for the last weekend of February or the first day of March.
What is clear is that a busy Christmas is anticipated. One participant on these contact tours described the period as lively. Depending on how these talks unfold, potential alliances will emerge. All eyes are on Soler, who has strong connections in Ferraz and seems aligned with what is known as abalism, and who could align with either Bielsa or the Ximism faction Morant might represent. He could seek the head of the party or a senior role within its structure.
The head of the organization stated yesterday that efforts are underway to hold a unity congress and suggested there is a real possibility of it happening. Muñoz urged Consell de PP and Vox to focus on building an alternative. He also noted that the personal wishes of each participant were entirely legitimate.