Accusations from the PSOE towards the PP and Vox
The Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) has raised the tone of its political rhetoric, directing harsh criticism at the leader of the Popular Party (PP), Alberto Núñez Feijóo, and the president of Vox, Santiago Abascal. The PSOE maintains that both have fueled the spread of racist rumours on digital platforms.
Defense of Antonio Silván and Criticism of the PP
The controversy intensified when Antonio Silván, deputy spokesman for the PSOE in the Senate, advocated measures to reduce the influence of anonymous profiles that spread hate messages. In this context, the socialists have reproached the PP for its lack of support for Silván, evidenced by the attitude of Alfonso Serrano, second in command of Isabel Díaz Ayuso, and Borja Sémper, spokesman for the PP.
Criticism of the PP’s inaction
The Socialists have pointed out that the PP’s attitude reflects a ‘certain coherence’ in abandoning Silván, suggesting that many of those who spread racist rumours do so from media outlets that receive public funding under PP and Vox administrations.
PSOE’s Commitment against Hate
The PSOE has reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against hate speech, declaring that it will not become complicit in such narratives. In a statement, it stressed that the PP’s decision to remain ‘on the sidelines’ on this issue is ‘shameful’.
Warnings about the Political Future
The Socialists warn that if the PP opts for a dark path, this will be its choice. However, they assure that citizens and history will judge its actions, reiterating their intention to seek majorities that strengthen democracy in Spain.
Racist Rumors and Their Impact
The controversy stems from the murder of an 11-year-old boy in a town in Toledo, an event that generated a wave of rumours on social media attempting to link migrant minors to the crime. Alvise Pérez, a member of the European Parliament for the Se Acabó la Fiesta party, was one of the main proponents of this false information.
The Role of Social Media in Disinformation
Perez used his Telegram channel, which has 700,000 subscribers, to spread misleading news, insinuating a connection between the murder and the presence of African immigrants in a local hotel. This situation has been exploited by the far right, which has stepped up its anti-immigration campaign, promoting news about crimes attributed to foreigners, many of which are incorrect.
Final Reflections on the Current Situation
The current situation raises serious questions about the responsibility of political parties in the fight against disinformation and racism. The PSOE’s response to these attacks could define not only its political strategy, but also the future of public discourse in Spain.
