Balearic Parliament President Defends Actions Amid Hate Crime Investigation
The President of the Parliament of the Balearic Islands, Gabriel Le Senne, spoke out to the media following his testimony before an investigating judge concerning a reported hate crime. The incident in question involved Le Senne tearing a photograph of notable Republican activists, which has raised significant controversy and calls for accountability.
Le Senne expressed his contentment in being able to clarify his actions and stated, 'It would not make sense for the complaint regarding tearing the photos of Aurora Picornell and the Rojas del Molinar not to be archived.' The discussion ignited public attention when he ripped the photograph during a parliamentary debate on June 18 regarding the possible repeal of the Law of Democratic Memory, associated with the historical recognition of Francoist repression.
During his testimony at Investigating Court 1 in Palma, Le Senne reiterated his assertion that the act was unintended, claiming he accidentally tore a page while attempting to remove it from a podium. He reflected on the incident, saying, 'I do not hate anyone,' attempting to convey his intent was not to disrespect the images of the executed activists. He also noted that he had already apologized for his mistake.
The photograph he tore depicted Aurora Picornell, a celebrated execution victim who had ties to the Communist Party and symbolized the resistance against the repression experienced in Mallorca. Alongside her, the portraits of her sisters Antònia and Maria Pascual also drew public ire after Le Senne's actions. This incident led the descendants of these victims, as well as other civil and political organizations, to file official complaints, asserting that the act constituted a hate crime against those who suffered under Franco's regime.
The backlash against Le Senne intensified after it was revealed that a governance pact between his party, Vox, and the PP (People’s Party) had begun to unravel following the incident. On September 3, the parliament convened an extraordinary session where attempts to initiate Le Senne's removal from office were made but ultimately fell short of the required three-fifths majority. The PP, which initially condemned his actions, chose to abstain in the vote, a move that allowed him to remain in power.
Despite this, tensions within the parliamentary structure remain high, and the judicial process continues as the investigating judge, Juan Manuel Sobrino, reviews statements regarding the incident. The situation reveals the dividing lines in Balearic politics, especially as leftist parties push for accountability in the face of historical injustices.
As the investigation unfolds, Le Senne’s argument of 'a moment of anger' reflects broader issues surrounding the recognition of past atrocities and the political symbolism embedded in such disputes. The community’s focus remains on ensuring that the memory of those who suffered is honored, while political sentiments regarding contemporary governance continue to clash starkly in the parliament's chambers.
Related Sources: