In the Assembly Hall of the island institution, the work 'Jerónimo Saavedra, the last notable figure', written by Marta Saavedra, the honoree's niece, was presented. The book delves into the political, institutional, and human trajectory of the man considered the father of Canarian autonomy.
The event featured the participation of the author and the president of the Cabildo, Casimiro Curbelo, a personal friend of the socialist leader. The presentation brought together institutional representatives and citizens interested in learning about the public and private dimensions of a key figure in the recent history of the Canary Islands and Spain.
“"A universal politician, a convinced autonomist, and a man deeply committed to the progress of the Canary Islands and Spain."
Curbelo recalled Jerónimo Saavedra as a "universal politician" and his "political mentor and friend for over four decades." He highlighted his participation in decisive moments of Spanish democratic life, from the Transition to the construction of the autonomous state, noting that he "was part of a generation that understood politics as public service, as dialogue, and as a permanent search for agreements."
The island president emphasized Saavedra's special connection with La Gomera, an island he returned to with affection and with which he maintained a close relationship. He recalled shared moments and his interest in spending time on the island, underscoring that "La Gomera was part of his personal and political memory" and that he always had "an attentive eye towards the island's major issues."
“"His legacy is not measured solely by the laws he promoted or the positions he held, but by something much deeper: his way of understanding politics. Politics in service of the people, based on dialogue, on the defense of principles, and on the ability to build bridges."
Marta Saavedra defined the book as "a true tribute" and thanked the invitation to present it in La Gomera, an island that holds a special place due to Jerónimo Saavedra's deep connection with it. She explained that the work includes over 40 interviews and offers insight into his more personal dimension, highlighting his role in significant milestones for the island, such as the promotion of the La Gomera airport.
The work, published by La Catarata, features a prologue by the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, and illustrations by María Luisa Hodgson. It includes testimonies from figures such as Felipe González, Alfonso Guerra, Javier Solana, and Carolina Darias.
Jerónimo Saavedra, a member of the PSOE and UGT since 1972, served as general secretary of the Canarian Socialist Party, a deputy in the Constituent Courts, the first president of the Government of the Canary Islands (1983-1987), and again headed the autonomous executive (1991-1993). He also served as Minister of Public Administrations and Minister of Education and Science, senator, mayor of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Diputado del Común.
