Lula da Silva has become a central figure in recent international political coverage after securing 48% in the Brazilian first round, setting the stage for a second-round showdown with Jair Bolsonaro. The election campaign marks Lula’s return to prominence after a period of significant legal and political turmoil, including a high-profile legal battle and a subsequent release. His reemergence in national and global discussions underscores the enduring volatility and strategic maneuvering that characterizes Brazilian politics today. Analysts compare his political comeback and capacity to mobilize voters with broader regional shifts, illustrating how controversial investigations can intersect with public support and electoral fate.
Within the Valencian political arena, discussions have tied Lula-like narratives to regional actors and the shifting allegiances within Compromís—a coalition that depends on its three-pillar balance between Més, Els Verds, and Iniativa. In this context, Alberto Ibáñez, a co-spokesperson for the initiative, asserted support for strong candidates who could represent Compromís on the Generalitat stage. He stressed that Oltra remains a viable contender should circumstances favor her candidacy, reinforcing a belief in the bloc’s ability to field influential figures on regional ballots. In a recent interview with À Punt, Ibáñez confirmed openness to Oltra’s potential candidacy and noted that the coalition would proceed with flexible timing and strategy.
News from national circles revealed that Joan Baldoví, a prominent Compromís figure, declared his intention to run for the presidency of the Generalitat, prompting a wave of internal discussion within the coalition. Ibáñez explained that he learned of Baldoví’s decision shortly before the public announcement, highlighting the delicate balance Compromís seeks between unity and individual leadership. The party has outlined its essential calendar for February and has discussed provisions that could allow Oltra to head the electoral list even if primaries were delayed.
Ibáñez further noted that Compromís, with Oltra at the helm, enjoyed a robust electoral performance, receiving a significantly larger share of votes than other candidates and underscoring the bloc’s influence in Valencian institutions. He attributed this strength to energy from younger generations who joined politics after 15M, a social movement that reshaped civic engagement in Spain. Questions have arisen about the handling of a ministry case tied to an ex-spouse accused of sexual abuse of a minor under guardianship, with observers asking whether the case would affect the electoral race. The broader discussion within Compromís centers on whether Oltra’s experience and reputation could withstand intense political scrutiny and help the bloc maintain influence.
Baldoví’s stance leaves room to protect Oltra’s Generalitat prospects if Compromís regains power
Today, a Compromís spokesperson downplayed tensions within the coalition after Baldoví announced his bid to lead the primaries. Simultaneously, Oltra’s replacement in institutional roles, the current vice president of the Generalitat, did not publicly commit to joining a future nomination. Heightened emotions led to a sit-in by members of the initiative during Baldoví’s public appearance in Alicante. Ibáñez explained that, regardless of how primary campaigns are framed, the initiative aims to prevent the impression that Baldoví’s candidacy is automatically protected.
Baldoví left open the possibility of supporting Oltra’s Generalitat Valenciana bid should he continue to serve as the coalition’s leader in the region after the upcoming May elections, signaling that strategic maneuvering remains a central feature of Compromís politics.