PP approves Paco Sánchez as mayor in Elda and Guillermo Rico as mayor in Monóvar
In the latest turn of local politics, the People’s Party (PP) in Elda confirmed the second-place nominee on its list, naming a familiar figure from the city’s civic and sports scene. The choice centers on a profile that blends public service with a proven track record in leadership roles. The announcement comes as part of a broader strategic push to strengthen the party’s presence in Elda while signaling readiness for a broader regional agenda. The person selected brings a history of public service, local roots, and a hands-on approach to governance that supporters say aligns with the city’s current needs. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
As part of the nomination, Paco Sánchez highlighted several aspects of the candidate’s background. The nominee has received both academic and vocational education, has experience working in a public institution, and is clearly a native of Elda. These details were presented to emphasize a grounded understanding of the community, its institutions, and its everyday challenges. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
Therefore, the PP stressed the candidate’s management capabilities and the value of bringing someone with national exposure and experience with international agencies into the local arena. They emphasized the importance of a thriving sports ecosystem, including women’s sports, and argued that the nominee’s leadership would provide a broad set of credentials that any party would want at the helm. The message was clear: the second-line candidate offers stability, credibility, and a track record of achieving results at multiple levels of sport administration. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
Felipe Martínez is introduced as a key figure in this evolving political landscape. He holds a Criminology degree from the University of Alicante, serves as an off-duty police officer, and is currently beginning a second term as president of the Royal Spanish Boxing Federation. He has stated that his initial intent was not politics, but the opportunity presented by Paco Sánchez’s project was compelling. Martínez believes that serving Elda with renewed energy could bring much-needed change to the city and its residents. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
In another development, the PP announced that Martínez would contribute to the party’s election campaign by adding new members to its campaign committee in Elda. His long history in sport and public life is presented as a source of leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking that could help coordinate a broad outreach to diverse segments of the community. Martínez has been described as bringing a wealth of experience from the boxing world, where he has held roles ranging from national athlete to senior coaching positions, and as an educator who has influenced coaching standards across Spain. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
During his career, Martínez has accumulated a varied portfolio, including responsibilities with the Spanish Federation and involvement with international boxing institutions. He has previously collaborated with national and international bodies, contributing to program development and governance improvements. He is pursuing further study, currently enrolled in a Master’s program focused on High Sports Performance, which signals a continued commitment to excellence in physical education and athletic administration. These credentials are cited by party supporters as evidence that Martínez can translate elite sport experience into effective civic leadership. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
Overall, the PP’s campaign team views Martínez as an asset who can bridge sports leadership with public service. Through his work with boxing federations and his ongoing academic pursuits, he is presented as someone who understands organizational dynamics, budgeting, and governance at a high level. The party contends that his background supports the vision of a city that values discipline, opportunity, and energetic community engagement. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
As the election period intensifies, the PP in Elda remains focused on building a robust campaign apparatus. The addition of Martínez to the roster is framed as a strategic move designed to expand the party’s reach, attract new supporters, and present a comprehensive platform that integrates sport, safety, and public service. The overarching message is that experienced leaders with local roots can drive meaningful change, deliver results, and inspire confidence among residents. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
The broader regional context includes corresponding leadership assignments in neighboring Monóvar, where Guillermo Rico is positioned as a key mayoral figure, aligning with the party’s regional strategy. The coordinated approach signals a unified effort to address shared concerns across municipalities while maintaining a consistent policy voice. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)
In summary, the PP’s candidate selections in Elda and Monóvar emphasize a blend of local authenticity, governance experience, and international exposure. Supporters argue that this combination offers practical leadership capable of advancing community interests, improving public services, and promoting sports as a vehicle for social development. As campaigns unfold, observers will watch how these profiles translate into votes and into a broader mandate for change within the region. (Citation: Local Elections Commission)