Guardamar must not lose hope: on 29N, don’t let disillusionment silence us

Those of us who live in Guardamar know that a town is much more than its streets, beaches, shops and landscapes. Above all, Guardamar is its people: the families building their future here, the young people looking for opportunities, the older residents who have helped build our society, and everyone who works day after day to help our town move forward.

And precisely because I care about the future of our town, I am concerned that more and more people are losing faith in politics.

I understand the weariness. I understand those who feel their problems do not always get a response, and those who have been disappointed by promises that have not been kept. But I cannot accept that the answer is to stop taking part. When we talk about housing, employment, healthcare, education, transport or public services, we are talking about issues that directly affect our daily lives and Guardamar’s future.

Many of these decisions are made far from our town, but their consequences are felt here: in our homes, on our streets and in the opportunities we offer our children.

That is why I believe politics, despite what we are currently experiencing thanks to those in power, remains an essential tool for changing society. Not politics based on constant confrontation, but politics that listens, engages in dialogue and works to solve people’s real problems.

On 29 November, we have an opportunity to decide what kind of Spain we want and what future we also want for towns like ours. Voting means exercising a right, weighing up the different options and freely choosing those we believe are best placed to meet the country’s challenges.

We must not confuse disillusionment with indifference, or criticism of politicians with giving up on politics. If we want things to improve, we must keep taking part, demand accountability and make our voices heard — and the only way to do that is by voting.

Personally, I still believe it is worth getting involved. I believe in our people’s ability to build a Guardamar with opportunities, high-quality public services and a future in which our young people can pursue their ambitions. And I believe that future also depends on the decisions we make as a society.

It is not about everyone thinking alike. It is about understanding that, despite our differences, we share many concerns and a common desire: to live better and leave future generations a place they can be proud of.

That is why, on 29N, I hope disillusionment will not decide for us. Let everyone vote freely and, above all, responsibly.

Because Guardamar is part of Spain, too, and Spain’s future is built in every town and by every citizen who chooses not to stand on the sidelines.

Let’s not lose hope or the will to take part. Because when we stop believing things can change, we begin to give up on changing them.