The National Political Council of Coalición Canaria officially appointed Fernando Clavijo as the party’s candidate for President of the Canary Islands in the May 2027 regional elections during a unanimous vote on Saturday.
Clavijo expressed gratitude for the party’s confidence and urged everyone to face the upcoming months with “unity, commitment, and a focus on the Canary Islands, regardless of the political landscape at a national level.” He emphasised, “Above our party’s name is the welfare of the Canary Islands, wherever we stand. We have proven this in opposition and demonstrate it now in government.”
He underscored the strength of a project built “from the ground up,” involving local communities and the islands themselves. “The secret of Coalición Canaria is that we prioritise the interests of our islands and the Canary Islands over individual ambitions,” he remarked.
Amidst ongoing political uncertainty, Clavijo reaffirmed that the party’s key priorities remain unchanged. “If early elections come, we will embrace them. While others bicker, we focus on the Canary Islands because we care deeply for them,” he said.
Highlighting efficient nationalist policies, he cited successes in areas such as migration, financial regulations, and housing decrees as examples of the party’s work.
Clavijo identified housing, demographic challenges, the upcoming European financial framework, and island development as major issues that need addressing. He vowed to tackle these with honesty, transparency, and conviction, emphasising, “We will not act out of fear but will defend our identity and heritage.”
The meeting also featured speeches from various territorial representatives, all stressing the importance of unity for the Canary Islands. David Toledo, national organisation secretary, highlighted the party’s strong local roots and commitment to policies benefiting the islands.
Pablo Rodríguez, secretary for Gran Canaria, noted the party’s newfound strength and called for a historic opportunity to unify Canarian nationalism. Javier Armas, president of AHI, gave his full backing to Clavijo, advocating for the unity of the eight islands.
Mario Cabrera of Fuerteventura talked about the challenges of achieving consensus in politics, while Victor Chinea from La Gomera reaffirmed that the welfare of the Canary Islands remains the top priority for the party.
Pedro San Ginés, representing Lanzarote, praised Clavijo’s ability to bring together various island perspectives with humility and respect.
From Venezuela, Johny Matías, president of CC Venezuela, extended support from various organisations across South America, emphasising the need to protect Canarians wherever they are.
Nieves Lady Barreto, secretary from La Palma, highlighted the unity of the party in facing difficult challenges, and Francisco Linares from Tenerife urged a focus on making decisions for the islands’ future.
Raquel Castro representing Young Nationalists, reinforced the call for unity and assured that Clavijo has strong backing from all islands.
Concluding, Clavijo acknowledged the efforts of Gran Canaria and the drive toward a united nationalism, stating, “The more united we are, the brighter the future for these islands.” He reiterated the need for unity and action in the months ahead, assuring that Coalición Canaria will pursue its agenda regardless of national uncertainties. “Whatever happens in Madrid, we know our path forward,” he declared.
