With impeachment rumors looming and calls for resignation swirling, the political spotlight in Valencia has focused on the Botànic leadership and their handling of recent tensions. The aim has been to secure the reputation of the Valencian Community. In the middle of this storm, Ximo Puig, the regional president, faced a tight 24-hour window to steer the narrative as he dealt with questions surrounding Mónica Oltra, who had served as vice president until Tuesday. Although Oltra’s decision to step down became public through statements from Compromís, Puig opted to emphasize the government’s broader work rather than dwell on personal or procedural disagreements. He acted as a stabilizing ally within Botànic, seeking to prevent further erosion of a coalition already tested by weeks of controversy.
Puig’s strategy involved a restrained public stance: a brief statement after a day of deliberation meant to sidestep the most provocative inquiries from the media. On Monday, PSPV-PSOE leaders urged Valencianistas to decide on Oltra’s resignation sooner rather than later, noting that the issue had become a matter of party strategy after a spate of disclosures on Saturday by Compromís. Puig, who has long been a central figure in the regional government, cleared his agenda on Wednesday morning and spoke from the Presidency with a measured tone.
Reflex
After Puig left Tuesday afternoon to reflect, initial assessments emerged about Oltra’s departure. The PSPV-PSOE leader respected and appreciated the choice made by the Botànic partner and indicated that the move was intended to protect the Consell and advance the overall interests of Valencians. In a formal statement, Puig highlighted that Oltra was a pivotal figure for political renewal, institutional recovery, and the improvement of living standards for residents. He thanked her for seven years of service and responsibility, noting that not all politicians share the same approach. He also joined Oltra in rejecting the personal attacks that had intensified in recent days, especially after it was learned last week that the TSJCV had summoned her to testify on July 6 in connection with an ongoing investigation. Oltra’s decision to relinquish her attorney duties was noted as a turning point, and Puig emphasized that a democratic society should reject such disrespect.
Right criticizes Puig’s “warmth” and left admires Oltra’s work
In response to the unfolding events, the political right criticized what they saw as a too-soft stance from Puig, while some left-leaning voices praised Oltra’s contributions. There was emphasis on the need to uphold judicial independence and the presumption of innocence, even as supporters argued that Valencia must stay focused on governance and reform. Puig asserted that the Valencian Community remains a respected, stable region and that its institutions should be strengthened through Botànic’s ongoing efforts. He noted that the government would press ahead with plans to deliver social and economic progress during a period of electoral volatility.
Puig pointed to record levels of employment, strong business activity, and robust health, education, and social services as indicators of the region’s resilience. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by a difficult judicial and political climate, emphasizing that Botànic’s agenda was designed to serve the five million Valencians. The aim, he said, was to continue advancing policies that support growth and social equity even as the electoral clock ticks down toward the next vote.
Right-leaning voices continued with an erosion-focused strategy, arguing that Oltra’s exit and the evolving relationship with Puig provided ongoing leverage for political gains ahead of next year’s elections. The People’s Party and Citizens criticized the perceived silence from the Generalitat’s leadership and described the current administration as fractured. They urged a clearer, more decisive approach to governance and accountability, suggesting that the coalition needed to restore trust while navigating the aftermath of Oltra’s resignation. A notable critique came from Elena Bastidas, who described the current dynamic as fragile and argued that citizens seek steadier leadership during a period of upheaval. The debate underscored the broader tension between political factions as Valencia moves through a critical transitional phase.