A forced farewell after 67 years of history
Under the rain and with the weight of an entire life on his shoulders, Mariano Ordaz, a 67-year-old retiree, left his home on Carnero Street in the Embajadores neighbourhood. This Thursday, the scene was dramatic: escorted by riot police and surrounded by a police presence that included firefighters and paramedics, Mariano was forced to abandon the place where he had lived since his birth.
The eviction was the fifth attempt against Mariano, who has tirelessly fought to keep his home. The Venerable Third Order of Saint Francis of Assisi, responsible for the eviction, owns considerable real estate in Madrid. However, this act did not go unnoticed by the neighbours and activists who gathered to protest. With banners in hand and shouts of support for Mariano, the community expressed their rejection of what they considered a social injustice.
The situation became even more complicated when two activists from the Acciones en Alturas collective decided to scale the building to prevent judicial access to Mariano's flat. This brave action reflected the desperation in the face of what many consider a lack of humanity from the religious order. Meanwhile, from inside the building, conversations among the operation members suggested acting without hesitation.
Mariano explained that his problems began during the pandemic when his income drastically decreased. He tried to negotiate with the property for a rent in line with his pension, but his efforts were unsuccessful. On the other hand, the Venerable Third Order argues that the eviction is necessary due to the deterioration of the building and the prolonged non-payment by the retiree.
Despite the justifications offered by the religious order, many neighbours have reported the poor structural conditions of the property. One resident commented on serious issues such as peeling and dampness affecting not only Mariano but also other tenants. According to them, there is a widespread perception that the property has intentionally allowed the building to deteriorate to facilitate evictions and carry out renovations.
As Mariano left his home under police custody and with social services by his side, it became clear that this case goes beyond a simple eviction; it is a symbol of contemporary struggles for decent housing in Madrid. The community remains vigilant as they await answers on how this complex situation will be resolved.
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