Commitment to Restoring Normalcy in Ceuta
On Thursday, **Félix Bolaños**, the Minister of the Presidency, Justice, and Relations with the Courts, delivered a reassuring message to the citizens of Ceuta, emphasizing that “**the State is dedicated to restoring normalcy as quickly as possible**” in the autonomous city. He highlighted the importance of humanitarian assistance for migrants, stating that they are “**holders of rights, human beings deserving of compassionate care**,” urging the public to refrain from any form of racist or xenophobic discourse. Furthermore, he reiterated the need to ensure the migrants' return to their home countries, firmly maintaining a respect for the law and addressing each case on an individual basis.
Bolaños pointed out that the current priority is to “locate, assist, and begin the processes for the repatriation, family reunification, or asylum of individuals who are **irregularly present in Ceuta**.” He noted that the Government is operating under a “**reinforced coordination**” following the declaration of a situation of national security interest adopted by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday. This unprecedented move, he explained, ensures that all resources and authorities are coordinated under the command of the Spanish Government, which has appointed Minister Ángel Víctor Torres as the sole commander for this operation.
Solidarity and Humanitarian Responsibility
Bolaños called for patience as the State is “**committed**” to recovering normality, declaring, “Anyone who suggests this can be resolved in a heartbeat has no idea.” He also mentioned that the General Council of the Judiciary (CGPJ) has not yet requested additional support for necessary actions in Ceuta. He elaborated on the judicial reinforcements made available following the massive influx of migrants, noting that the Institute of Legal Medicine in Ceuta has increased its capacity by **300%** to conduct autopsies on 88 bodies and identify nine individuals who attempted to swim across.
The minister emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “**We do not proclaim solidarity; we practice it, in Europe and in Spain**. It is not very patriotic to wrap oneself in the Spanish flag in Ceuta while denying the city the collaboration of other autonomous communities.” He expressed that any defense of a position suggesting that individuals entering the territory, based on their skin color or nationality, do not deserve respect for their dignity is neither social nor humane and contradicts the spirit of the Constitution.
Bolaños reiterated that the migrants remaining in Ceuta “are holders of rights and deserve to be treated with humanity.” He stressed the need to meet their basic needs for food, hygiene, and health, while unequivocally condemning any racist rhetoric.
In a response to accusations from parliamentary groups regarding the Government's preparedness for the massive entry of 70,000 individuals into Ceuta, Bolaños stated that “**the Government of Spain had no prior or accurate information about the scale of this influx**.” He firmly addressed claims made by Vox and the PP regarding Morocco's involvement in orchestrating the migration, asserting that “**there is no evidence**” to support such allegations. He urged for a more respectful approach towards Morocco, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining good relations.
As the situation unfolds, Minister of Defense, **Margarita Robles**, initiated a series of ministerial appearances in Congress to explain the situation in Ceuta, praising the work of the Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Centre (CNI). She acknowledged the feelings of abandonment expressed by some and reported on prior intelligence information, which has sparked further controversy within the Government.
The ministers responsible for Health, Justice, and Territorial Policy will attend a joint Congress-Senate Security National Commission to clarify the current status in Ceuta and the measures to be implemented. The potential use of municipal sports facilities to house migrants is at the center of a heated debate, with the government denying their designation for that purpose.
Minister of Youth and Childhood, **Sira Rego**, is set to preside over the Sectoral Conference on Youth and Childhood, where discussions will include an emergency assistance package of 25 million euros aimed at providing support to the thousands of unaccompanied migrant minors in Ceuta. Rego firmly dismissed any notion of mass deportations of minors, affirming that they will ensure all legal mechanisms are in place to protect vulnerable children.
In conclusion, as the Government continues to navigate this complex humanitarian crisis, a collective effort and solidarity from all autonomous communities are essential to ensure the dignified treatment and welfare of every individual affected by these circumstances.
As reported by antena3.com.
