This morning a press conference was held for the media in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall, where representatives of Compromiso Manilva and Con Andalucía IU sought to justify the vote of no confidence submitted last week, which they argue was prompted by «paralysis» and a lack of investment in Manilva.
The spokespeople for both parties explained in detail the reasons that have led them to table a vote of no confidence against the current PP mayor, José Manuel Fernández, arguing that there is «paralysis» in municipal management and that the mayor has been unable to attract investment to the town.
Both agree in pointing to Fernández’s «political inaction», accusing him of putting personal interests before those of Manilva. They criticise his «personal propaganda campaign» and the lack of investment from other administrations, including institutions governed by his own party. They also denounce the absence of leadership and clear political direction, which they say has led to important projects for the municipality being stalled. The spokespeople consider the current administration to be a «fraud» that puts personal and party interests ahead of the wellbeing of the town.
Compromiso Manilva and IU express their commitment to a change of course for the municipality, implementing policies that prioritise people’s needs, and invite other progressive parties to vote in favour of this motion, which will be taken to the council meeting on the 28th. According to statements by Mario Jimenez, the aim of this change is to create a better place for residents and to address important issues such as housing, security and services for older people.
This newsroom, present at the event, asked about the legal situation of Mario Jiménez, who is currently awaiting sentencing. Mario Jiménez addressed the question himself, stating that he feels «completely innocent» of the accusations against him. He stated that his management has always been «clean», prioritising the interests of Manilva, and said he is open to the court’s decisions, although confident that the final outcome will be favourable to him.
Another question our newsroom put to both parties concerned the rise in the Property Tax (IBI) which, as we have been reporting, Compromiso pushed to reduce for the current year 2025, while the Con Andalucía Izquierda Unida councillors voted against, considering it was not the best moment. Marcos Ruiz took the floor in this case to clarify that a motion was proposed to work on this tax for the benefit of residents, and that the measure would be linked to possible compensation with the refuse collection charge. Ruiz stated that, if the central government forces the introduction of the refuse collection charge, corrective measures will be taken on the IBI so as not to affect residents’ finances.
