Thousands Expected to Celebrate as Catalan Parties Influence National Government
Introduction
Catalonia’s National Day, known as La Diada, is expected to draw thousands of celebrants on Monday, marking a significant moment in the region’s political landscape. While support for Catalan independence has waned in recent years, the involvement of Catalan separatist parties in forming a new national government could breathe new life into the movement.
Catalan Parties Hold Key Role
Pere Aragones, the leader of the Esquerra Republicana Catalana party (ERC), a moderate left-wing separatist party, emphasized the pivotal role that Catalonia now plays in national governance. With two Catalan parties poised to influence the formation of a new government, the prospect of achieving previously elusive goals has been rekindled.
Puigdemont’s Conditions for Support
Former regional leader Carles Puigdemont, currently residing in Belgium as a fugitive from Spanish justice for his involvement in the secession attempt five years ago, has outlined stringent conditions for his party’s support in parliament. These conditions could determine the fate of Socialist Acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s government following the July elections.
Spain’s Response and Political Landscape
Spain’s Acting Government Spokeswoman, Isabel Rodriguez, has reiterated the country’s commitment to upholding the constitution. Meanwhile, Alberto Nunez Feijoo of the conservative People’s Party (PP), which won the most votes in the July elections, will attempt to form a government on September 27. However, his chances are perceived as slim, given the PP’s firm stance against concessions to separatists.
Changing Public Sentiment
A survey conducted by the Catalan Centre for Public Opinion (CEO) in July revealed that 52% of respondents opposed Catalonia’s independence, while 42% supported it. This marks a shift from the October 2017 referendum when 49% supported independence and 43% were against it. It’s important to note that many of those opposing independence boycotted the referendum.
Conclusion
Catalonia’s National Day celebrations this year take on a political significance, as separatist parties stand at the threshold of influencing the formation of a national government. The evolving dynamics could reignite the debate on Catalan independence, making it a noteworthy event for both Catalonia and Spain as a whole.
