Novel Exposes Mediocrity and Dysfunction in Spanish Political Parties

Three former Spanish politicians—Mario Garcés, Luis Cueto, and José Manuel Calvo—have co-authored the novel 'Yo Presidente' to illuminate what they see as a culture of mediocrity and self-interest deeply embedded in Spain's political parties. The story follows Humberto Hurtado, a morally ambiguous politician whose rise to presidency serves as a metaphor for the flaws in Spain's political landscape. According to the authors, the novel is a "diagnosis" rather than merely a critique, aimed at fostering political regeneration through reforms such as open lists and electoral changes. They highlight that the political system is plagued by undemocratic practices that stifle talent and perpetuate mediocrity, with Hurtado embodying the self-serving, ideology-lacking politician common in current parties. The writers' shared political backgrounds and collective distance from active politics lend credibility to their critical perspective. Their collaboration emerged amid contentious political negotiations like Operación Chamartín, underscoring their firsthand experience of the dysfunctionality they portray. The authors call for urgent reforms to restore democratic vitality and challenge the entrenched mediocrity they witness in Spain's party politics.