The PSOE of Arrecife has denounced this Wednesday that Mayor Yonathan de León has decided to spend nearly €30,000 of public funds on a gala dinner to close the San Ginés Football Tournament, an event that already cost over €170,000 and which “ended with more disappointment than glory.”
The socialists recall that this tournament was hastily organised after the Socialist Municipal Group denounced the cancellation of Option A, initially scheduled for 7th, 8th, and 9th August, which included teams such as UD Lanzarote, US Yaiza, Rayo Vallecano B, Girona B, and the women’s teams of Real Sociedad and CD Tenerife. “Everything fell apart due to the disastrous management of Yonathan de León and his trusted advisor, Eli Merino,” they lamented.
Concerns Over Public Spending
“The seriousness of the matter lies not only in the disproportionate spending but in the lack of respect for the sports clubs in the municipality, which continue to await funding from last season and have no idea when this year’s call for applications will be released,” denounced socialist councillor Roy González. “While hundreds of families await a response, Councillor Merino is busy asking if the dinner guests prefer vegetables with meat or fish. It is a mockery and an insult to those who support grassroots sports in our city with immense effort,” he added.
Impacts on Local Sports
The PSOE of Arrecife has argued that, while a lavish banquet is organised for a select few, sports clubs have yet to see a single euro of the promised aid. “Once again, sports and citizens are relegated to a secondary role, sacrificed at the altar of waste and political posturing,” they stated.
“We are talking about a tournament with a history, recognised at regional and national levels, which should be a tribute to the efforts of players, coaches, and fans. However, this municipal government has turned it into yet another excuse for frivolous spending and self-promotion,” asserted Roy González.
Call for Responsible Governance
The socialist councillor has been unequivocal: “Arrecife does not need gala dinners. It needs management, responsibility, planning, and respect. What is happening is disgraceful.”
According to the PSOE of Arrecife, the governing model being consolidated by Yonathan de León and Eli Merino is based on improvisation, patronage, and wastefulness. “The culture of extravagance has become the hallmark of this governing group. And as always, the bill is footed by all the residents of Arrecife,” they concluded.
