Juan Manuel Moreno, president of the Andalusian Regional Government, is considering a broader government reshuffle following the imminent departure of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development Minister Carmen Crespo, who is set to feature prominently on the PP’s European Parliament election list. While sources close to Moreno do not rule out further changes affecting other ministers during this period, they refrain from using the term “crisis” as they believe it implies acknowledgment of government wear and tear. Unlike in previous instances, there is no definitive denial regarding potential additional changes within the autonomous government from these sources.
When Moreno decided to part ways with his efficient Development Minister Marifran Carazo, proposing her as the Granada mayoral candidate, he immediately dismissed the possibility of a government reshuffle. He had chosen a replacement candidate from the same electoral constituency as Carazo. Despite denying any thoughts of a mini crisis for the European elections on February 28, current uncertainties prevail. Moreno stated in an interview with Cadena SER and EL PAÍS that he is not ruling out changes in the division of responsibilities among ministries, although he rejected the idea of separating tourism, culture, and sports – areas criticized by the opposition.
Carmen Crespo’s inclusion in the European elections candidacy was decided over the weekend, positioning her among the top five spots on the PP ballot. The party sought a candidate with agricultural expertise, and Moreno put forward someone who has been in charge of these responsibilities in his government for the past five years. Crespo maintains strong relationships within the sector and has been closely involved in negotiations regarding the new CAP. Despite a minor setback involving the Director General of Fisheries and Aquaculture, José Manuel Martínez Malia, Crespo refused to dismiss him from his position due to antifraud office sanctions related to his involvement with companies receiving government aid.
Crespo’s departure from the Agriculture Ministry is imminent, with another minister temporarily handling her responsibilities until Moreno decides on a replacement. In a similar situation previously, Vice President Juan Marín took over the Education and Sports Ministry following Javier Imbroda’s passing. Moreno later appointed Manuel Alejandro Cardenete to the role. However, at that time, the government was a PP-CS coalition where both parties influenced decisions – unlike today with Moreno’s majority control. Health Minister Catalina García stands out as a source of uncertainty within the cabinet due to management issues with waiting lists and a vice-minister’s move to a private insurer, Asisa.
Throughout his five-year presidency, Moreno has shown reluctance to dismiss his ministers. His initial cabinet faced resignations, such as Alberto García Valera stepping down from Hacienda, Industry, and Energy due to health reasons. While post-elections in 2022 saw the departure of Elías Bendodo and Juan Bravo for roles in Núñez Feijóo’s PP leadership, they remained in their positions until the term’s end. Moreno heralded Crespo’s exit as positive for Andalusia, emphasizing the need for a strong voice in Brussels. The departing minister was applauded by PP members during her final session in parliament.
