Former councillor, short time mayor, and longtime political heavyweight Antonio Zapata is back in the spotlight, gunning for leadership of the PSOE in Orihuela. After years in the shadows, Zapata is sharpening his speeches and polishing his red rose once more – and this time, he’s in it for the long haul.
Zapata, who made waves as Urban Planning and Heritage head during the 2011–2015 term and even took the mayor’s seat (albeit temporarily), is throwing his name back into the ring.
He had already teased of a comeback in 2022, eyeing the top spot in the local PSPV-PSOE chapter, only to step aside “for unity’s sake” at the party’s request. That move may have prevented a primary showdown, but tensions remained—and now, he’s no longer playing the waiting game.
In a bid to rally unity amid the fractured PSOE ranks, Zapata promises a “unified, approachable, and dialogue-driven” leadership, claiming he’s ready to build bridges – not burn them. “I want to count on everyone who truly puts Orihuela first,” he declared with trademark flair, taking a subtle swipe at what he sees as his self-serving rivals.
But it’s not just party politics on his agenda. Zapata is also positioning himself as a torchbearer for socialist values, feminism, green policies, economic growth, and disability inclusion – a full progressive package as he sets his sights on the ultimate prize: the mayoralty in 2027.
The battle for control of Orihuela’s PSOE will come to a head by June 30, when the new secretary general and executive team are chosen. Will Zapata rise again—or is Orihuela not yet ready to turn the page?
