In politics, as in life, there are people who change everything. Not because they impose themselves, not because they shout louder or seek prominence, but because they are there. They are there when you have to work with discretion and rigor, they are there when things go well and we allow ourselves to celebrate, and they are there, above all, when you have to step forward and make difficult decisions. Andrés Stinga has been, for me, one of those essential people. Andrés has been a right-hand man and battle companion.
Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have many hands that have pushed with me, valuable, committed and generous men and women and Andrés has been a constant, loyal presence, always willing to give his best.
Andrés has been by my side in all the important stages of my political life: when I had the honor of being mayor of San Bartolomé, and later as president of the Cabildo of Lanzarote. Always, without conditions. Always with commitment and generosity.
I could talk about his management capacity, his seriousness at work, his vocation for public service. I could highlight his knowledge of procedures, his meticulous way of doing things well, his sense of responsibility. All that is true. But what distinguishes Andrés is not summarized in a curriculum. It is measured in trust. With the confidence of knowing that, in the face of each challenge, he would be there, providing serenity, discretion and unquestionable efficiency.
Andrés is one of those who are there from the first minute. From the idea to the last step. And also when it was necessary to show your face and bear the weight of complex decisions. He has been a pillar in the hard times and a silent joy in the shared achievements.
Together we faced particularly hard times: a period of austerity in San Bartolomé, the result of a previous administration that left more problems than solutions; an unprecedented pandemic that demanded difficult decisions every day. In each of those moments, there were some words of his that still resonate in my memory: 'This will turn out well, girl'. And, with his serenity and his way of being, it always turned out well. But not only did it turn out well: each challenge also left us with a stronger bond, a firmer trust and a loyalty that never made noise, but was always there.
This recognition is not only mine. It is that of all the people who have worked with him and know that there is no position or task too small when you have a true sense of public service. Andrés represents that. He represents the best of politics: vocation, dedication, humility. It is a recognition of the entire PSOE of Lanzarote.
Thank you, Andrés. For your work, for your loyalty, for your humanity. And, above all, for having been that companion on the road that one never forgets.
Now you are starting a new stage, and I wish you the best. I know you will continue to be the same: close, hardworking and loyal. Thank you, friend of the soul, of the real ones. It has been an honor to walk with you.