Internal Tensions Emerge Over PP Mayoral Candidacy in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Internal tensions are brewing within the People’s Party (PP) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife as the race for the 2027 mayoral candidacy begins, according to a recent report by El Día. Speculation has emerged regarding a potential change in leadership, with some suggesting that First Deputy Mayor Carlos Tarife could be replaced by his colleague, Carmen Pérez.

This uncertainty comes despite a period of stability for the current local governing coalition, where the PP works alongside the Canarian Coalition. Tarife, who has been with the party for over 20 years, has made it clear he intends to lead the ticket. He points to internal polling that shows the party gaining momentum in the capital, arguing that the decline of the PSOE—both nationally and locally—puts the PP in a strong position for the next election.

Tarife has dismissed rumors of a personal rift with Pérez, noting that he was the one who helped bring her into politics. He emphasized that the final decision on candidates rests with the party’s regional and national leadership. After reports of his potential replacement surfaced, Tarife consulted with regional party leaders, who denied any such plan and warned that those responsible for self-serving leaks could face disciplinary action.

The debate underscores how vital the Santa Cruz seat is to the PP’s broader strategy in the Canary Islands. While the question of who will lead the ticket remains open, Tarife maintains that his current focus is on the stability of the local government and opposing the central government’s policies, while he waits for further direction from party leadership.