Puig counters Azud allegations as regional election climate heats up
Genovesa de Puig, head of the PSPV and president of the Generalitat, addressed the Azud case this week, arguing that the ongoing investigations should not dictate the regional election results. He noted that some political leaders have suggested there was irregular financing, but he stands firm that the matter should not influence voters at the ballot box.
In a discussion with Onda Cero, summarized by Europa Press, Puig analyzed the potential impact Azud could have on the elections. The probe concerns alleged billing schemes tied to public works contracts in Valencia City Council, with companies accused of issuing fictitious invoices to secretly finance PSPV during the era associated with Rita Barberá.
Puig asserted that since 2015 Valencia has shown strong democratic quality and resilience, even as corruption concerns arose. He claimed that there have been no corruption cases within his government over nearly eight years and stressed his commitment to transparency.
He also reminded listeners that the PSPV leadership at the time has maintained there was no improper funding in campaigns from 2007 and 2008, insisting that actions were in line with the law as it existed then.
Puig reiterated his trust in the justice system and said he expects the full truth to emerge. He noted that the Azud case involves a party member but asserted that no charges have been filed against him by those within his circle, differentiating from other regional figures.
On the timing of elections, Puig said the May date remains, barring any unexpected changes. He observed that political dynamics in Spain are shifting quickly and suggested there is little reason to consider advancing the vote in the Valencian Community. The prevailing view, he argued, is to proceed with scheduled elections in May.
Sanchez effect
Asked whether the so-called Pedro Sánchez effect has helped or hindered him, Puig noted that citizens have matured in how they evaluate votes. He credited national social policies with enabling better crisis management, hinting at a positive influence on public sentiment toward his administration.
Puig claimed that the national government’s actions align with his aims for the Valencian Community and that there has been no friction with Prime Minister Sánchez over his regional presence. He suggested the dialogue at the national level could inform better local decisions.
Despite optimism, Puig urged patience to see five months of developments. He stressed that he would not mislead voters and that his priority remains the wellbeing of the Valencian Community. He described himself as a leader representing all Valencians who cast a vote and emphasized the community’s interests above personal political calculations.
When discussing relationships with pro-independence parties, Puig pointed to a shift in the national stance toward Catalonia, noting that regional barometers reflect this change. He argued that dialogue remains the necessary path, while acknowledging controversial measures may surface as part of governance.
The Civil Guard has said it is examining additional segments of the Júcar-Vinalopó region for irregularities. In response, Puig called for a comprehensive view of reforms and cautioned against assessing measures in isolation. He defended the rule of law and the value of constructive dialogue as essential components of governance.
Regarding embezzlement reform, Puig highlighted the importance of a broad, coordinated government strategy rather than a piecemeal approach. He argued that reforms to the Penal Code should support the core aim of ending corruption and ensuring proportionate penalties, with government officials stressing that the system remains committed to accountability.