The PP is again using a systemic crisis, that of Ceuta, to encourage polarization and give Morocco wings

A Ceutí socialist deputy has called for the resignation of the regional government delegate in the city, citing poor management during a migrant crisis. The call comes amid growing tensions within the ruling party over how the situation has been handled. Melchor León, a member of parliament for Ceuta and second vice-president of the assembly, made his demands public through social media platforms. He criticized the actions of Miguel Ángel Pérez Triano, who serves both as the regional government delegate and as the leader of the local Socialist Party branch, and is also running for office in upcoming regional elections. León accused Pérez Triano of failing to address the crisis effectively and of prioritizing personal and political interests over the well-being of residents. In his post, León emphasized the need for transparency and honesty, stating he was prepared to face consequences within his party for speaking out. “If saying the truth means I get an investigation or expelled, it doesn’t matter,” he said. He argued that the current state of affairs in Ceuta, marked by rising crime, insecurity, and disrupted daily life, is not a political issue but one of dignity. He stressed that citizens deserve to live safely and without fear, calling for children to be able to move freely without apprehension. León directly addressed Pérez Triano, accusing him of turning a blind eye while the city faces unprecedented challenges. He cited financial losses, canceled festivals, and shuttered businesses as evidence of the impact of the crisis. “While this city bleeds with 28 million euros in losses, celebrations suspended, shops closing, and neighbors no longer recognizing their streets, he has placed his personal interests and political career above the welfare of Ceuta,” León claimed. He demanded that Pérez Triano resign, arguing that someone more committed to defending the city should lead its administration. The controversy follows internal divisions within the Socialist Group in Ceuta’s Assembly. The group recently decided to replace its representatives on municipal enterprise boards, consolidating representation among León and another deputy, Sebastián Guerrero. This decision was framed as organizational, yet it excluded several members associated with Pérez Triano’s inner circle. Meanwhile, Vox, led by Juan Sergio Redondo, has proposed forming a governing coalition with the Popular Party (PP) to challenge the current administration. Redondo suggested that the PP’s leadership in Ceuta, Juan Vivas, immediately pursue this alliance, breaking ties with both the PSOE and the party of Fatima Hamed. Such a partnership would secure a majority of 13 deputies, potentially reshaping the political landscape in the region. This move reflects broader patterns of political maneuvering around the migrant crisis. In 2002, a military operation known as Operation Romeo-Sierra removed Moroccan troops from the island of Perejil, near Ceuta. At the time, then-opposition leader José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero supported the government's response. Twenty-four years later, thousands of migrants entered Ceuta, prompting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to condemn the breach of Spanish territory. Despite calls for accountability, the crisis persists, with ongoing threats of mass entry and hundreds of migrants sleeping outdoors. The PP has taken a different approach than the PSOE did in 2002, using the Senate, a chamber where it holds a clear majority, to challenge the government. Its leader, Pedro Rollán, threatened legal action against ministers who refused to appear before senators. While some officials have agreed to attend, they have not committed to specific dates. Meanwhile, PP senators staged a symbolic absence by sitting empty in a session where Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska was expected to speak. Political fragmentation continues to shape responses to Morocco’s actions, despite indications that the country may be behind the recent influx. Analysts suggest that such divisions weaken Spain’s ability to manage cross-border issues effectively. As the situation evolves, the pressure on all parties to find common ground grows stronger.