The Government of the Balearic Islands, led by the president Marga Prohenshas declared two days of official mourning, from noon this Friday until noon on Sunday, after the death of Francesc Antich Oliver, who was president of the autonomous community on two occasions. Antich passed away on January 2 at the age of 66.
The decision was announced this Friday after an extraordinary Consell de Govern convened to pay tribute to the first socialist president of the Balearic Islands. “In the Balearic Islands we put aside today the differences of the political debate that he always lived with passion to say goodbye with sadness to a public servant,” said Prohens during an institutional appearance. The president highlighted Antich’s dedication to public service, stating that “it is our duty to say goodbye as is deserved and with recognition to a man who served during an important part of his life to the citizens of this land”.
An outstanding political career
Francesc Antich, born in Caracas in 1958, played a fundamental role in Balearic politics. He was mayor of Algaida ( 1991-1997), island councilor of Environment in the Consell de Mallorca (1995-1999) and deputy in the Balearic Parliament before assuming the presidency of the Govern in two terms (1999-2003 and 2007-2011). In addition, he represented the Balearic Islands in the Congress of Deputies (2004-2007) and in the Senate (2011-2019). During his tenure, he led milestones such as the transfer of the competence of Health to the community, the reform of the Statute of Autonomy in 2007 and the creation of the Balearic Institute for Women. His last position was as president of the Port Authority between 2020 and 2022. He was distinguished in 2006 with the Gold Medal of the Islands, the highest distinction of this Community, together with his four predecessors in the presidency of the Government, precisely because of his notable transcendence in the development of the autonomy. The death of Francesc Antich Oliver is a fact of special relevance and a reason for mourning for the citizens of the Balearic Islands. For this reason, the Government will host, from this Friday afternoon, at the headquarters of the presidency, the Consolat de Mar, his mortuary chapel and the book of condolences so that all citizens can approach.
