Victims’ Association Demands Testimony from Feijóo in DANA Case
The Dana 29-O Fatal Victims Association has formally requested that Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Popular Party, be summoned as a witness in ongoing legal proceedings related to the tragic flooding in Valencia, which resulted in 230 fatalities. This request, communicated through legal documents submitted to the Court of Catarroja, aims to elucidate the information exchanges between Feijóo and the then-president of the Generalitat Valenciana, Carlos Mazón, during critical moments following the disaster.
Importance of the Requested Testimony
The association believes that Feijóo’s firsthand account is crucial for determining the authenticity and timeline of information communicated after the catastrophic flooding caused by the Isolated Depression at High Levels (DANA). The victims’ families are particularly interested in clarifying conversations held from October 28 to 31, 2024, in the aftermath of the floods. They stress the need to contrast Feijóo’s statements against existing formal records.
During a public appearance at the Integrated Operational Coordination Center (Cecopi) on October 31, Feijóo acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “The president of the Generalitat has been informing me in real-time… that we fear that there are more people dead.” The victims’ association seeks to secure a video recording of this statement as documentary evidence in the case.
Investigative Procedures and Goals
The formal request also specifies that the proposed location for Feijóo’s testimony be the national headquarters of the Popular Party in Madrid. This localization is intended to facilitate detailed inquiries into how both political leaders received and transmitted data about the emergency.
Despite recent witness testimonies and progress in the investigation, the full scope of communication between Feijóo and Mazón remains unverified. The association argues that the official list of phone calls provided by law enforcement does not adequately reflect the ongoing, real-time notifications claimed by Feijóo.
Context of the Investigation
Following the tragic events in Valencia, the investigation initiated by the Catarroja Court aims to scrutinize the response actions executed by political and technical leaders. Recent judicial decisions have allowed for the continuation of this investigation, ensuring that new procedures will include testimonies from individuals who maintained contact with Mazón during crucial days.
The Dana 29-O Victims Association emphasizes the necessity of determining the origin and content of all information exchanged between state and regional leaders, invoking the need for comprehensive clarity regarding any potential errors or lapses in emergency management.
Conclusion: A Call for Clarity and Accountability
The judicial proceedings underscore the critical importance of understanding institutional communications concerning disaster management. The association views the reconstruction of these communications not only as vital for ensuring accountability among public officials but also for enhancing emergency protocols in the future.
Ultimately, the association’s push for Feijóo’s testimony highlights their commitment to transparency and justice, as they seek answers to a tragedy that has left a profound impact on the Valencia community. The investigation remains open, prioritizing the meticulous reconstruction of decision-making processes and public official communications during an emergency that claimed many lives.