Hard-right leaders in Spain have seized upon the Cordoba train crash tragedy in a bid to attack Pedro Sanchez’s Socialist government.
While the death toll continues to be counted, agitators like Vito Quiles and the leader of the Vox party Santiago Abascal have taken to social media to score political points.
Many right wing commentators are calling for transport minister Oscar Puente to resign over the accident, despite the investigation barely having started.
Vox leader Abascal wrote on X: ‘Like the rest of Spain, I am following with close attention and deep dismay the reports of the railway accident in Córdoba.
‘Let us already pray for the victims, and I hope that the full capacity of the State is working to care for the injured.
‘Unfortunately, and I regret to say it, as in so many catastrophes that have struck us in recent years, I cannot trust the actions of this government.
‘Nothing works under corruption and lies. I hope that the professionalism and dedication of the emergency and medical services will make up for the manifest incapacity of the political power.’
Many commented with anger under the post, saying it was ‘not the time’ while ‘bodies are still being counted’.
One Spaniard branded him a ‘disgrace’, while another said ‘you’re a hyena’.
Meanwhile, other right-wing leaders took a more sensitive and measured tone.
Leader of the opposition party (Partido Popular) Albert Feijoo wrote: ‘I have just spoken with Juanma Moreno (president of Andalucia) to convey our solidarity following the train accident in Cordoba.
‘The emergency services are working with the utmost rigour to minimise the consequences as much as possible. That is what matters now.
‘All our strength and support to the affected people and their families at this distressing time.’
Moreno, who leads the Andalucia region for the Partido Popular, also focused on the emergency.
He said: ‘Very concerned about the serious railway accident in the province of Córdoba.
‘We have sent emergency services and logistical support to the area to help in whatever is necessary.
‘We are closely following the situation of the affected people.’
