The PSOE of Elda is presenting three new faces in the starting lineup for the municipal elections, as it eyes a third consecutive victory next May. Rubén Alfaro, the mayor and general secretary of the party in the city, will again lead the candidacy after approval from the Socialist board at an extraordinary meeting held at the Paurides Foundation this Saturday. Socialist representatives frame the move as a blend of proven experience and fresh energy, highlighting a team that combines the reliability built over four years of city governance with new names that promise renewal, youth, and a broader, refreshed vision. The squad averages 38 years of age, signaling a young, dynamic leadership.
The most notable changes feature two newcomers who had not been part of the Socialist ticket before: María Gisbert Candela and David Guardiola Albero, placed at numbers 4 and 5 respectively. Elisabet Belda López earns a promotion to a starting position at number 6, rising from number 16 four years ago. Also highlighted is the advancement of Silvia Ibáñez, the current councilor for Economic Development, Industry and Employment, from eighth to second position in the 2019 lineup. In contrast, Alba García, the social services mayor who held the second slot four years ago, moves down to the 22nd spot. In practical terms, this shift signals a deliberate push to distinguish the party from the front lines of local politics and demonstrate a commitment to renewal.
Evidence suggests Alba García may be stepping away from the mayoralty, as this newspaper has learned. The departure would be voluntary and tied to the wear and tear from the responsibilities of the office, especially after the strain of the coronavirus pandemic. In remarks linked to the transition, Rubén Alfaro acknowledged that García would not continue as part of the project for personal reasons and offered heartfelt thanks. The sentiment was shared: Alba and I began this journey twelve years ago, matured together in politics, and pursued a goal we set from the outset; to place people at the center of decisions and ensure no one is left behind while pursuing equal opportunities.
Three new faces in starting positions join the slate, with David Guardiola taking the helm of the San Antón administration since 2018. He has long been associated with the San Francisco de Sales congregation from his youth, and his background includes work as an accountant for a footwear company. Guardiola has been active in CC OO unions and in social movements related to youth, education, and social welfare, as recalled by Socialist sources. Maria Gisbert is 27 years old, with a master’s degree in Sociocultural and Touristic Animation and currently pursuing studies in Psychology and Gender Equality. She serves as a technician at Cruz Roja Elda and acts as an observer at the Santo Negro school. Belda López, Elizabeth, holds degrees in Law and Criminology and works as a lawyer specializing in Civil, Family, and Data Protection law. She is also a member of the PSOE Local Executive Committee and rises to the 6th position in the ticket, a move seen as a potential indicator of electoral strength rather than a sign of internal instability.
Alfaro emphasizes a team dedicated first to Elda and its residents, stating that the new lineup will remain grounded in values and people-centered policies. He notes the team’s public service orientation and the enthusiasm needed to guide the city over the next four years. The message also reflects pride in the city’s governance over the past term, acknowledging the challenges posed by the pandemic and recent global events, including Ukraine-related disruptions. The goal, Alfaro adds, is to continue transforming the city with a steady, solvent administration that can withstand unexpected pressures and keep moving forward, while staying true to the core mission of serving all residents.