José Manuel Soria publicly stated on 14 September 2026 that he considered a leadership duo comprising Carlos Sánchez and Onalia Bueno to be the best option to Cabildo de Gran Canaria . The former Cabildo president and ex-minister explained his support in local media by citing their experience and connections.
The recommendation came amid intensive exploratory talks on Gran Canaria. Carlos Sánchez, a prominent figure in the Partido Popular on the island, is seeking to reorganise the centre-right camp. Onalia Bueno, mayor of Mogán, has recently established an independent profile in island politics and spoken publicly about possible alliances with the Partido Popular. The PP has also indicated that Bueno would not necessarily have to lead its list for the Cabildo; any possible partnership therefore remains subject to negotiation. Formal decisions lie with the party bodies and are still pending.
Soria’s move is politically controversial. Supporters point to the prospect of bringing together fragmented forces to the right of centre. Critics argue that choosing such partners sends the wrong message on matters of integrity. Bueno has previously been the focus of prosecutorial inquiries and public debate, which have shaped her profile; she is not known to have been convicted in a final court ruling. Opponents see Sánchez as representing an outdated form of clientelistic politics. Both assessments are attributions made by political opponents, not judicial findings.
Soria himself has polarised island politics for years. His name remains linked to the so-called Caso Salmón connected to a 2005 flight in a private jet owned by a Norwegian businessman, which came to light at the time, and the project discussed shortly afterwards Anfi Tauro. The courts discontinued the proceedings; no corruption offence was established. However, the affair remains a political reference point in discussions about links between business and the administration on Gran Canaria.
The specific majorities in the Cabildo de Gran Canaria now depend on forthcoming candidate lists and any coalition agreements. Soria’s remarks should be seen as political support, not a binding decision. Whether the duo he favours will actually stand together will only become clear once the parties finalise their candidacies and publish any agreements. Until then, the endorsement provides fresh impetus, once again putting strategic realignment in the island parliament centre stage.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).