Initial reports indicated adjustments within the Government Sub-Delegation in Alicante. Juan Antonio Nieves was identified to replace Carlos Sánchez. The change would not be immediate, requiring a short waiting period. After 48 hours, the transition timetable began to crystalize, with a few more days before it would be fully in place. The move, organized by Alejandro Soler, a deputy in PSPV-PSOE and the provincial secretary in Alicante, is planned to occur after the Christmas holiday period, following the return of the Three Kings.
Soler considers naming a former Provincial Council advisor to the Subcommittee
Within the circle of the Elche leadership, the change is framed as a necessary generational shift for the Sub-Delegation. The move appears aimed at replacing Carlos Sánchez, who took office last June after Araceli Poblador stepped down. Sánchez reportedly intends to retire, though this rationale has met resistance from his supporters. In his most recent public remarks during the Christmas season, Sánchez outlined a roadmap for the coming year, detailing the infrastructure priorities he believes should guide the province of Alicante. This plan underscores the ambassadorial role the Sub-Delegation plays in shaping regional development.
Soler will face a constraint if he cannot place a like-minded figure in the Sub-Delegation, as in the case of Nieves. Meanwhile, unease grows among certain segments of Alicante socialism who feel that the timing is not ideal for such a reorganization. The party is on the cusp of a congress process, prompting questions about leadership changes and the broader implications for PSPV. There are even discussions about who could become the next general secretary of the PSPV and how leadership transitions might affect the party’s stance toward regional governance. Within the party, there are voices regretting that internal negotiations often hinge on provincial considerations, particularly when bargaining chips are at stake during leadership talks.
career officer
Other PSPV sources suggest Nieves may be named Deputy Government Representative, a possibility long suspected within Soler’s circles. The move would involve Nieves attaining career civil servant status in group A1—a prerequisite that was reportedly fulfilled in mid-December. With that hurdle cleared, the timeline tightens toward Soler’s official announcement of Sánchez’s replacement, and unless something unexpected happens, the change should be completed after the Christmas holidays.
Nieves currently serves as general secretary for the Young Socialists in Elche and is closely tied to the PSPV group there, which Soler leads. He has studied Political Science and Public Administration and maintains strong connections with other young socialist groups across the Valencian Community. His notable relationship with José Muñoz, the current Organizing Secretary of the PSPV and recently appointed Socialist Ombudsman to the Valencian Cortes, stands out, especially following the parliamentary group reshuffle after Rebeca Torró and Arcadi left the scene. This network of ties could influence how the party navigates upcoming structural changes in the region.