Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez’s coalition agreement with Catalan separatists draws widespread criticism and EU scrutiny over rule of law concerns.
Spain is currently witnessing an escalating political crisis as Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist Party (PSOE) forms a controversial coalition government with the Catalan separatist party Junts per Catalunya. This alliance, vital for Sánchez to secure another term, offers Junts’ parliamentary support in exchange for amnesty for Catalan politicians and activists involved in the 2017 secession attempt. This deal has sparked significant backlash across the nation and raised serious concerns in the European Union.
The EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders has intervened, seeking detailed information about the proposed amnesty law, as it raises “serious concerns” about Spain’s adherence to rule of law principles. This unprecedented EU involvement indicates the gravity of the situation, further complicating Spain’s already tense political landscape.
Opposition parties, led by Alberto Núñez Feijóo of the People’s Party (PP), have vehemently criticised the agreement, accusing Sánchez of undermining Spain’s rule of law for political gains. The situation has led to protests and public outcry, with the PP vowing to continue denouncing the agreement within the EU framework. This political turmoil reflects a deep division within Spain, where even within the PSOE, opinions about the amnesty are split.
The agreement, while aiming to resolve the longstanding conflict between Catalonia and Spain, maintains a mutual distrust between the two parties. Despite recognising the 2017 Catalan independence referendum’s illegitimacy, the PSOE has agreed to cooperate with Junts, signaling a new phase of negotiation, albeit fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Story Source
