INDEPENDENCE WILL NOT BE WON WITH A PETITION — IT WILL BE WON AT THE BALLOT BOX

Independent status for Orihuela Costa is not achieved through petitions or demonstrations alone. The journey towards independence involves multiple elections and building political strength over time. Journalist I.F. Stone emphasized that the most worthwhile fights are those we must lose repeatedly until ultimate victory is achieved.

Building political representation through frequent elections, registering more residents to vote, and transforming frustration into votes are essential steps. Petitions demonstrate public sentiment but rarely change the direction of local government. Politicians understand votes more than they comprehend petitions. Protests outside municipal halls can express frustration but do not substitute for electoral strength.

Even a majority in an election won't immediately grant independence; Orihuela Costa would still need to navigate legal procedures, financial assessments, and resolve various municipal assets and liabilities. It's crucial to understand that achieving independence involves overcoming multiple obstacles, setbacks, and potential attempts to derail the process.

While the Ayuntamiento of Orihuela, Valencia, and Madrid bear significant responsibility, Orihuela Costa's own residents must also play their part by building political strength through elections, registration, and serious assessments. Independence should not become an excuse for the Ayuntamiento to neglect its current responsibilities or for residents to wait for years without addressing existing problems.

Building electoral strength through one election at a time is the only way to achieve lasting political change and true independence.