On February 27, 2025, more than a hundred residents of Monachil, primarily elderly individuals, gathered to protest the partial closure of the only bank operating within the town's historic center. This closure arose from a unilateral decision by the banking entity, which will now limit its services to just two days each week.
The demonstration unfolded outside the bank's entrance as local citizens expressed their opposition to the newly imposed schedule. José Morales, the mayor of Monachil, attended the protest to show his solidarity with the residents and to voice his disapproval of the bank's decision-making process.
Morales noted the specific vulnerabilities of the community he serves. "La mayoría de los vecinos son mayores y no se pueden desplazar" (Most residents are elderly and cannot travel), he stated, indicating the difficulties these long-standing residents face. Many of these elderly individuals rely on the bank for their daily financial needs, and the decision to reduce hours only intensifies their sense of isolation.
Initially, the bank had aimed to close its doors entirely, but after negotiations led by Morales, it was decided the facility would remain operational for two days each week, with the cash machine available 24/7. Despite this concession, Morales argued, "Esto sigue siendo insuficiente para las personas que viven en el Casco Antiguo, muchas de ellas personas mayores que no se pueden desplazar" (This is still insufficient for the people living in the Old Town, many of whom are elderly and cannot travel).
The financial institution's decision to cut its services has been met with widespread discontent and indignation among residents. They argue not only about the inconvenience but the potential emotional toll of losing their sole financial point of access, highlighting the need for the community to have reliable banking services.
The historic center of Monachil has seen growth over the years, often tied to tourism, and many believe this expansion is reflected not only quantitatively but also qualitatively through the needs of its inhabitants. Residents have rallied for accessible financial services as part of their right to economic participation. The protests underline not only the need for banking facilities within walking distance but also call attention to broader concerns about eldercare, mobility, and inclusion.
With this situation highlighting the interconnected nature of local economics and well-being, many elderly residents felt elevated frustration as they found themselves facing yet another barrier to their financial independence.
The mayor's involvement indicates official recognition of these concerns, as he works closely with the Association of Old Town Residents of Monachil, who played a significant role in organizing the protest. Morales stated, "La idea inicial de la entidad era cerrarla por completo" (The entity's initial idea was to close it completely), underscoring the gravity of the situation the community faced.
Residents expressed their determination to keep fighting for their rights to have full access to banking services. The response observed during this protest marks just the beginning of possible larger movements within the town to protect its services and address the needs of its aging population.
Going forward, Morales and the citizens of Monachil will need to remain vigilant and proactive. The bank's decision might be just one of many systemic challenges they will have to confront as they advocate for their community’s needs and strive to protect the infrastructure necessary for social and economic well-being.