Allegations Against Betancuria’s Mayor Marcelino Cerdeña: A Deep Dive into Electoral Misconduct

The political landscape of Betancuria, a small municipality in Fuerteventura, is currently embroiled in controversy. Marcelino Cerdeña, the town’s mayor and a prominent figure representing the party Unidos por Betancuria (UPB), is facing serious allegations concerning electoral fraud during the 2019 municipal elections. These allegations have led to a request for a formal trial—an event that could have significant implications for Cerdeña’s political career.

The Accusations

The crux of the issue rests with the vote-by-mail process employed during the last elections held in May 2019. According to the prosecution led by prosecutor Tomás Fernández de Páiz, Cerdeña engaged in fraudulent activities by tampering with the vote-by-mail applications of numerous voters. The legal document submitted by the prosecution details how Cerdeña’s legal advisor allegedly played a significant role in the mismanagement of mail-in ballots, filling out applications and even listing the UPB headquarters as the return address.

This misconduct is particularly alarming as, under the electoral laws, voters are required to submit their ballot requests in person. Yet, numerous voters never actively participated in requesting their mail-in ballots, raising eyebrows and prompting investigations into Cerdeña’s practices.

A History of Legal Troubles

Cerdeña’s legal advisor is not new to the judicial system. In 2010, she was already sentenced to two years in prison for coercive crimes, casting a shadow over her credibility and raising questions about her current role within the administration. The prosecution seeks a year-long prison sentence for her involvement in the alleged electoral fraud, along with additional penalties including disqualification from holding public office during the sentencing period.

Irregularities in Mail-in Voting

The investigation revealed troubling patterns regarding the mail-in ballot process in what is the smallest municipality in the Canary Islands, home to less than 700 residents. The political scrutiny intensified when it came to light that around 20% of the votes were cast by mail—significantly higher than usual. Through various witness statements, it became clear that a number of voters were not even aware they had requested mail-in ballots; some had not filled out their applications personally and had limited understanding of the electoral process.

Many individuals involved were found to have mental health issues or disabilities, which could hinder their ability to comprehend the complexities of such a request. Furthermore, it was alleged that some voters received promises of employment or other benefits in exchange for their cooperation, a tactic that the Fiscalía views as further evidence of manipulation.

Legal Framework and Charges

According to the Ley Orgánica del Régimen Electoral General, any individual who violates the established procedures for mail-in voting can face imprisonment of three months to a year, or a fine ranging from six to 24 months. Both Cerdeña and his advisor are thus accused of breaching Article 141.1 of the law. Their case raises critical questions about the integrity and accountability of electoral systems.

The Political Landscape

Since taking office, Cerdeña has been a significant player in the local political arena, notably achieving absolute majority in the 2019 elections, securing 61% of the votes, and obtaining five out of seven council positions. His administration has been marked by a significant political maneuver—his involvement in a motion of no-confidence against then-President Lola García and subsequent political shifts within the municipality.

The ramifications of these allegations extend beyond legal consequences; they threaten the very stability of Cerdeña’s administration and his party’s standing in local governance.

The Road Ahead

Currently, the situation stands at a critical juncture, with Cerdeña facing the prospect of appearing before the judicial system to answer for the allegations against him. As the case developments unfold, residents of Betancuria will undoubtedly be watching closely, as the outcome could redefine their local governance and restore or further undermine public trust in elected officials.

The ongoing legal issues and questions surrounding electoral integrity emphasize a pressing need for transparency and accountability in the electoral process, ensuring that the principles of democracy are upheld in even the smallest communities.