With the August performances just around the corner, the Festa d’Elx is set for a period of renewals. It is expected that in the coming weeks, not only a portion of the Governing Board's members will be renewed, but also the executive president will be elected, succeeding businessman Francisco Borja, who has completed his eight-year term. One of the names that has gained significant traction in recent months is José Manuel Sabuco, former president of the Venida de Virgen Society, who is seen as a consensus figure by most involved parties.
The proximity of the performances had fueled speculation, but the news of Sabuco's potential election gained momentum last Tuesday, sparking varied reactions among the patrons. Although not yet official, many sectors consider the appointment a done deal, awaiting confirmation from the governing board, which will be responsible for selecting the final candidate from representatives of the three involved institutions: Elche City Council, the Diocese of Orihuela-Alicante, and the Generalitat Valenciana.
Sabuco's track record in the society that organizes the winter patron saint festivals, as well as his involvement with Cáritas, the Cristo de Zalamea, and the basilica of Santa María, are seen as advantages. He is described as a measured, dialoguing, and discreet individual, characteristics that could favor his election.
The Governing Board comprises the mayor of Elche, Pablo Ruz; the rector of the basilica of Santa María, Vicente Martínez; and the head of the general directorate responsible for cultural heritage, as effective presidents. Additionally, there are nine members appointed by the Generalitat Valenciana, nine by the mayor of Elche, and nine by the bishop of Orihuela-Alicante. Recently, there has also been a change in the delegate for singers, with Carlos Javier Sánchez Moreno succeeding Alberto Vilella.
The election of the executive president requires an absolute majority in the first vote and a simple majority in the second. However, the current harmony among the three institutions suggests that the most strongly favored candidate, Sabuco, is likely to be chosen. The composition of the governing board, with upcoming new appointments, might lean towards a more conservative stance, as previous appointments came from left-wing executives, whereas now the executives of Juanfran Pérez Llorca and Pablo Ruz will make the designations.
Speculation regarding the leadership change for the executive presidency of the Misteri has been constant. Confirmation seems imminent following the meeting of the management board scheduled for Tuesday afternoon in Elche, coinciding with the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Misteri as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
