PP Launches Congress Amid Political Tensions: A Spotlight on Alberto Núñez Feijóo's Leadership

Under the slogan "Take Party for Spain," the Popular Party (PP) kicked off its XXI National Congress on Friday in Madrid. This significant event is set to see the re-election of Alberto Núñez Feijóo as the party's president, amidst a backdrop of heightened political tension arising from the Cerdán case impacting the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE). As with previous gatherings, the PP is offering a range of merchandise, including T-shirts and sweatshirts emblazoned with notable phrases from current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, such as "fachosfera" and the iconic "It's five o'clock, and I still haven't eaten." The congress venue, located at the Feria de Madrid, is structured into four main sections. The first section welcomes over 3,000 attendees, featuring multiple information booths themed around ideas such as "meeting," "freedom," and "youth." Attendees will find not only details about the Congress but also promotional items from the José María Aznar-led Faes Foundation, as well as merchandise from the New Generations of the PP and the European Peoples' Party. Merchandise on offer includes everything from water bottles and bracelets to T-shirts and hoodies. The apparel is particularly notable for phrases that resonate with the ongoing political discourse, such as Mariano Rajoy's "very Spaniards and very Spanish" and references to Pedro Sánchez's comments following a press conference related to allegations involving his former deputy, Santos Cerdán. Following the merchandise areas, delegates will enter a spacious plenary hall prepared for key speeches. The PP aims to present a united front, promoting an image of strength against a PSOE currently perceived as troubled and engulfed in scandals. The congress features dedicated spaces for voting and closed-door discussions regarding two primary presentations related to the assembly’s Statutes and Policy. Alfonso Serrano, head of the organizing committee, took journalists on a tour of the congress, engaging with party members and taking photographs. In the main discussion area, officials from the Community of Madrid will have a prominent seating arrangement, positioned in the front rows to the left of the speaker's platform—indicating their crucial role in hosting this high-stakes event. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2