The author reflects on the decency of parents who refused to let their son’s death be used to fuel hatred after he was murdered. He was moved by their grace in the face of the calls for the death penalty, which seemed to identify more with the murderer than with the victim. The author criticizes the presence of indecent journalists who are funded by economic and political powers to sow discord in society. This problem is exacerbated by a shift where the mudslinging tactics used by bad politics are now being reflected back into the political arena, further contaminating public discourse. The author warns that this fusion of bad journalism with bad politics is damaging society’s ability to live in harmony.
The author highlights the importance of treating issues related to crimes and punishments with dignity in a democratic society. Using victims of violence, such as those affected by ETA terrorism, as pawns in political games, disrespecting their memory, or manipulating their suffering for political gain is as serious as distorting the justice system or turning punishment into a form of mob justice. Justice should not be about vengeance, but about maintaining social order. The author denounces the manipulation of public discourse by inciting hatred to distort the meaning of crimes and punishments, leading to a poisonous dynamic that undermines democratic principles. Seeing victims being exploited by pseudo-politicians is even more egregious than when similar infractions are committed by pseudo-journalists.
The writer concludes by asserting that Spain is in need of a different kind of conservatism. The current state of affairs suggests that the political landscape is in need of a shift towards a more respectful and dignified approach to governance. This call for change is rooted in the belief that the well-being of society relies on the responsible and ethical behavior of its political representatives. The author’s critique is aimed at challenging the status quo and advocating for a new direction that prioritizes integrity, compassion, and respect in public life. By emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic values and principles, the author underscores the urgent need for a political transformation that can foster a more inclusive and harmonious society.