Carles Puigdemont Leaves Barcelona Following Brief Visit Amid Continued Legal Struggles
Carles Puigdemont, the former regional president of Catalonia, has reportedly left for Belgium after a brief visit to Barcelona. The announcement came from Jordi Turull, the secretary general of Puigdemont's party, Junts. The separatist leader, who is currently wanted under a warrant, intends to continue his political work from Waterloo, according to Turull's statement made to the Catalan radio station RAC1.
Puigdemont returned to Barcelona on Tuesday evening, marking his first visit to the city since fleeing abroad on October 30, 2017, following a failed attempt to separate Catalonia from Spain. During his time abroad, Puigdemont primarily lived in Belgium, with some recent stays in southern France. Despite the Spanish police's ongoing search for him, Catalan songwriter and ANC leader Lluís Llach shared a message from Puigdemont via the social media platform X, stating that the former president is healthy, safe, and, most importantly, free.
Puigdemont's lawyer, Gonzalo Boye, addressed the media, confirming that his client was once again outside of Spain. Following Puigdemont's brief rally speech before thousands of supporters in Barcelona and his quick exit amid police presence, Boye reflected on the significance of Puigdemont's return, stating that he had completed his political work and went home, as anyone would do.
Despite Spain's recent enactment of an amnesty for separatists, Puigdemont's case remains complicated. An arrest warrant issued by Judge Pablo Llarena accuses him of personal enrichment during the controversial events of 2017, a charge that is not covered by the newly established amnesty. In light of these developments, Judge Llarena is now seeking explanations from both the police and the government in Barcelona regarding the circumstances that allowed Puigdemont to evade arrest.
As the political landscape remains tumultuous, Puigdemont's decisions continue to stir significant debate and attention both in Catalonia and across Spain. His ability to navigate this complex situation while advocating for Catalonia's independence remains a focal point in the ongoing separatist movement.
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