Lanzarote’s PSOE party has accused Coalición Canaria (CC) and the People’s Party (PP) of “political cynicism” for supporting a motion to promote Elisa Corujo as a Favourite Daughter of Lanzarote and La Graciosa while blocking a socialist initiative to restore her to her previous role on the Euthanasia Guarantee and Evaluation Committee of the Canary Islands.
Ariagona González, deputy spokesperson for the Socialist Group, criticised both parties for using the recognition as a “public relations operation” following Corujo’s removal by the government of Fernando Clavijo. She stated, “Elisa Corujo has decades of experience. CC and PP have suddenly remembered her merits now that the Clavijo government has dismissed her. It’s an insult to both her and the public.”
González questioned the justification for Corujo’s dismissal, suggesting it stems from an alleged incompetence, while the motion presented by CC and PP praises her professional reputation, experience, and commitment to bioethics. She linked her removal to a report revealing that 70% of euthanasia requests in the Canary Islands had been denied, which highlighted issues with access to a dignified death.
“The Clavijo government dismissed her after learning about a report that shows how this right is exercised in the Canaries. This is how CC and PP treat a respected geriatrician: they remove her and then attempt to use an award as a smokescreen,” she lamented.
González further believed that the administration’s actions conveyed a troubling message to the public: it suggests that anyone who speaks out is sidelined, and then offered a consolation prize for their silence.
The PSOE also accused Oswaldo Betancort of using the Cabildo to obscure the Clavijo government’s decision, prioritising party loyalty over respect for Corujo. “Betancort has again bowed to his leaders in Tenerife. He should demand that Clavijo reinstate Elisa Corujo and ensure the right to euthanasia in the Canaries. He needs to confront this decision instead of trying to conceal it with an award,” González stated.
The Socialist Party emphasised that Corujo’s merits are well-established through her decades of service in healthcare and elder care. They reject the idea of her accomplishments being used to mask a political decision and to avoid discussing her reinstatement.
“They are damaging Elisa Corujo’s reputation by supporting her dismissal and trying to resolve it with an honour. Her career deserves respect. If they recognise her capabilities and value, they should start by demanding her return to her position,” González concluded.
