The Community’s Triumph: Resistance Against the 30-Meter Antenna in Antigua

In the historic town of Antigua, the local community has recently emerged victorious in a significant stand against the installation of a 30-meter communication antenna. This story is not just about an infrastructure project; it is a testament to the power of collective action and community solidarity.

Daily Protests and Community Mobilization

Since mid-July, residents have been vocal in their opposition to the telecom tower, which unexpectedly appeared in their vicinity along Camino de las Piletas. What began as small gatherings in front of the construction site quickly escalated into larger demonstrations, culminating in peaceful protests at the Town Hall of Antigua. Each day, locals filled empty lots, adorned their balconies and windows with banners, and used every available space to voice their discontent.

Their message was clear: the antenna’s placement posed serious health concerns and infringed upon their quality of life. This relentless activism was not confined to Antigua alone; the movement stretched to Puerto del Rosario, where demonstrators gathered in front of the Directorate of the General State Administration to amplify their demands.

Creative Methods of Protest

The community’s clever and poignant protest tactics included the placement of tombstone-like markers around health centers, symbolizing the fears surrounding the potential health risks posed by the antenna. This inventive approach not only captured the attention of passersby but also emphasized the urgency of their cause.

Residents actively distributed flyers, plastered posters throughout the town, and engaged in peaceful sit-ins, illustrating a unified front under the banner of health and community safety. Their activism aimed to secure not just the halt of the construction but the relocation of the tower to a site far from residential areas.

Legal Representation and Political Engagement

Realizing the need for a strategic approach to address their grievances, the residents enlisted legal counsel to formally approach local authorities. This culminated in a meeting with Antigua’s mayor, Matías Peña. During this discussion, the community sought the suspension of construction activities, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing battle.

The protests garnered attention from higher political echelons as well. The national secretary of the Canary Coalition (CC), Fernando Clavijo, listened to the residents’ concerns and acted swiftly. Following his meeting with the CEO of Tótem, the telecommunications company behind the antenna, a significant development emerged: a commitment to pause the current plans and consider alternative locations in collaboration with the local government and the Cabildo of Fuerteventura.

Political Fallout and Community Spirit

Despite the progress, tensions between the community and the local government persisted. The CC expressed disappointment in Mayor Matías Peña, arguing that his actions exacerbated the situation instead of facilitating constructive dialogue. Allegations surfaced that the mayor had engaged in discussions with the antenna installation company since late 2024 without informing the local council or considering community input.

Urbanism councilor David Alberto revealed that he only learned of the antenna project in June 2023, a move that further fueled community frustration. However, he quickly aligned himself with the residents’ efforts, demonstrating a willingness to advocate for their concerns moving forward.

Celebration of Community Strength

Throughout this struggle, the resilience and dedication of Antigua’s residents shone brightly. Their mobilization showcased not only their determination but also a profound sense of community spirit. The CC has pledged to continue supporting the residents, affirming that the true strength of this movement came from the passionate involvement of the locals.

As the dust settles on this particular battle, attention now turns to ensuring that the discussions between Tótem, the local council, and the Cabildo yield tangible results that honor the community’s wishes. The ongoing dialogue aims not only to prevent a recurrence of this situation but also to foster a more engaged and responsive governance structure in Antigua.