The Insular Executive Committee of the PSOE in Lanzarote has today issued its strongest condemnation of the unacceptable statements made by the mayor of Tinajo, Jesús Machín. During the last municipal council meeting, Machín admitted that the council has paid for hotel nights to avoid the detention of alleged offenders in cases of gender-based violence.
Reprehensible Confession
“We are faced with a repulsive public confession of institutional complicity with the aggressor. This is not merely a slip of the tongue or an unfortunate remark; it is a matter of grave severity that has no place in a democratic society,” stated Cristina Duque, deputy secretary and spokesperson for the PSOE’s Insular Executive in Lanzarote.
Support for Local Party Members
Furthermore, the PSOE has expressed “full and unwavering support” for the local Socialist Group in Tinajo, recognising their courageous and committed work in defence of victims and the rule of law. They also condemned the unjustified attacks received from the mayor himself. “Let there be no doubt: we will not allow these practices or attempts to discredit those who report them to go unpunished,” emphasised Duque.
Coalition Canaria’s Silence
The Insular Executive has also condemned the complicity of silence from Coalición Canaria, which has yet to clearly address the conduct of its mayor. “Silence, complacency, or neutrality only serve to reinforce the message of impunity for offenders. If Coalición Canaria does not act, it becomes a political accomplice to an intolerable institutional transgression,” warned the Socialist spokesperson.
Responsibilities of the Mayor
The PSOE reminded that it is not up to any mayor to decide whether or not to detain an alleged abuser. That responsibility lies with the security forces, official protocols, and the judiciary. Circumventing this institutional framework to improvise unlawful solutions using public funds is a direct assault on the principles of equality, justice, and victim protection.
A Call for Accountability
In conclusion, the Insular Executive emphasised that the fight against male violence requires brave, responsible institutions truly committed to defending women’s rights. “There is no room for nuances, no excuses, and certainly, it cannot be tolerated that this is the response of a public institution to such a serious crime. Those who act in this manner must assume political responsibilities immediately,” concluded Duque.
