Podemos Members to Decide on Critical Conditions for Budget Support Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
Podemos, a left-wing political party in Spain, is engaging its members in a quick consultation regarding significant conditions for their support of the upcoming General State Budgets (PGE). Ione Belarra, the party's general secretary, announced that from tomorrow until Sunday, members will be able to vote on whether to condition their favorable vote on two key demands.
The first condition urges the Spanish Government to break diplomatic relations with Israel, whom Belarra described as a 'genocidal state,' and to impose a total arms embargo on the country. The second demand seeks to address the ongoing housing crisis by legally mandating a 40% reduction in rental prices, prohibiting the sale of properties not designated for habitual residence, and dismantling entities like Desokupa, which Belarra labeled as a 'squad command.'
Belarra emphasized that significant decisions within Podemos are made by its membership. She stated, 'It is the least that can be requested,' reiterating that this request is a minimal expectation from the Government in return for Podemos' support. With four deputies in Congress, Belarra highlighted the necessity for her party to leverage its political power to ensure the Government adheres to the wishes of its constituents as expressed in the last elections.
In a recent speech at the party’s Autumn Uni, Belarra harshly critiqued the government for failing to meet the expectations of progressive voters, declaring that the current administration is not initiating any social transformations. She pointed out the frustration of voters who, disillusioned by the Government's lack of action on serious issues like the housing crisis and international relations, are left feeling that they are becoming accomplices to major injustices.
Moreover, she accused the Government of effectively ceding power over the judiciary to the right through its dealings with the Popular Party (PP), and referenced the Koldo case as evidence of corruption within the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers' Party). She expressed disbelief that high-ranking members of the PSOE, including former deputy leader José Luis Ábalos, could engage in misconduct without anyone else in the party being aware.
This move by Podemos reflects growing frustration among left-leaning constituents, demanding accountability from the ruling coalition while pushing for bold policies to address pressing social issues. As members prepare to voice their opinions, the outcome of this consultation could significantly shape Podemos' future relationship with the PSOE and its role in the Spanish political landscape.
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