Following Spain’s deadliest natural disaster in recent memory, a visit by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia to Valencia became the target of public outrage, with protesters hurling mud at them. The recent devastating floods claimed at least 217 lives, with the toll expected to rise. When the royal couple appeared, alongside Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and other leaders, many locals expressed their fury at what they saw as inadequate warnings and slow government response. Protesters shouted ‘Murderers!’ and ‘Get out!’ at officials, blaming them for the disaster’s aftermath, and there were several clashes with police. Queen Letizia burst into tears after speaking to several grieving people. One commentator noted that the crowd's anger was directed at the politicians, not the royal family. Public resentment over the government's handling of the floods has intensified. One week after the floods struck, many people still did not have drinking water.
Spain: mud thrown at king, fury directed at politicians
Written by David Fletcher 07 Nov 2024Additional Info
- Pray: for suitable help and healing for all those affected by the floods, and for responsible leadership in Spain. (Psalm 34:18)
- More: www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/spain-king-felipe-queen-letizia-mud-valencia-floods-b2641414.html
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