We find ourselves caught in a cycle of stagnation. The energy is low, the enthusiasm is lacking, and Orihuela Costa desperately needs someone to breathe new life into the community. There’s a growing sense of helplessness – local wealth is continuously drained to support a minority, and the standards across the area are in decline.
Despite numerous promises from the PP and VOX parties, nothing has been delivered. Now, it’s time for the residents to take action if they truly want change.
There are around 28,000 residents registered on the Padron, but it is widely believed that an equal number are not registered for various reasons. These individuals are not helping Orihuela Costa’s cause – in fact, they are impeding its progress. They live and work here, so why not commit to the community and get registered?
This simple act would increase the voter base and shift the power balance towards Orihuela Costa. Their current stance is selfish – they are benefiting from the system without contributing.
Orihuela’s population surge in 2024 has been largely driven by residents from the coast, with Orihuela Costa experiencing the most significant growth – up 5% compared to last year. In contrast, Central Orihuela grew by just 0.1%, and rural districts saw a 0.9% increase.
With a total of 27,929 residents now calling Orihuela Costa their home, and the trend continuing, it could soon be as large, if not larger, than Orihuela itself. The power is shifting towards the coast – soon we won’t just be the economic engine of the municipality, but we will also hold the greatest voting power. However, this only happens if every resident commits to registering and voting. It costs nothing, but it could make all the difference.
In 2019, only 38% of registered voters participated; in 2023, this increased to 49%. Now, we urge everyone to register and push those numbers even higher. The cost of not voting is that the wrong people – politicians and councillors – will rise to power, potentially doing harm to our community.
The election is about voting for the right party and the right leader to take Orihuela Costa to the next level. What we need is a leader who can generate excitement, hope, and enthusiasm. We need someone who can unite the diverse communities of Orihuela Costa – mobilising businesses, groups, and associations alike. A leader who the entire coast can look up to, not someone who divides us. Relying only on English-speaking residents is no longer enough to achieve real change.
We’ve made progress, but now we need a new party to push even further. Voting is a powerful tool for change, and history shows that no other political party has consistently prioritised the needs of Orihuela Costa.
A small effort today – registering and voting – can lead to a brighter future for generations to come.
Currently , apathy and selfishness are holding us back. The upcoming elections, on May 30th, 2027, will bring a flood of information on how to vote and what to do. But we must end this cycle of apathy now.
Registering and voting may only take a few minutes, but if you continue to ignore your responsibility, you risk losing the benefits you enjoy now. It’s time to stop leaving everything to others and take your own responsibility for the future of our community.
Image Credit: Mikhail Nilov
