Ceuta President Denounces 'Inadequate Response' to Mass Migrant Entry

The president of Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta, Juan Jesús Vivas, has sharply criticized the Spanish government for what he calls an "inadequate response" to the massive influx of migrants in late July. Vivas accused the government of "passivity" and a "lack of will" to resolve the crisis, stating that not all individuals who entered the city have been identified or accounted for.

“

I have denounced the 'lack of adequate response' from the Government of Spain to the crisis unleashed by the massive entry of tens of thousands of immigrants on July 30 and 31.

During the events of July 30 and 31, tens of thousands of migrants reportedly crossed into Ceuta, overwhelming local authorities and resources. Vivas estimates that between 8,000 and 10,000 people remain in the city. He questioned what measures are being taken to ensure border security and to economically and psychologically "reactivate" the city.

“

We are facing an absolutely exceptional humanitarian crisis.

In contrast, Spanish Health Minister Mónica García described the situation as an "absolutely exceptional humanitarian crisis." While acknowledging the severe humanitarian challenge, García denied that the government had abandoned the city institutionally. She emphasized that the "greatest urgency now is health-related, which is to house people."

“

I believe there has been no abandonment at any time.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez was scheduled to hold a videoconference with his ministers to discuss the ongoing crisis, his second such meeting while on summer vacation. The Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migrations, Elma Saiz, was also set to visit Ceuta to assess the humanitarian aid efforts and meet with Vivas. The newspaper El País is providing free updates on the crisis.

“

I have accused the Government of 'passivity' and 'lack of will' to resolve the crisis unleashed by the massive entry of tens of thousands of migrants at the end of July.