Puigdemont Calls for Confidence Vote Amid Growing Discontent with Sánchez
Carles Puigdemont, the former president of the Generalitat and current leader of the Junts party, has issued a strong call for confidence in the government during a recent press briefing from Brussels. As we approach the anniversary of the contentious Amnesty Law, Puigdemont expressed his skepticism regarding the current administration led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. He lamented the stark lack of progress, indicating that communication between stakeholders in the negotiations remains alarmingly inadequate.
Puigdemont's remarks came as he reflected on a tumultuous year for Catalan independence movements, stating, 'The progress is scarce, and the lack of coordination between discussions in Switzerland and the actions taken by the government deeply concerns me.' This statement highlights a growing divide between regional leaders and the central government, causing an erosion of trust within the coalition that initially supported Sánchez's leadership.
The Catalan leader did not mince words, declaring, 'It's time for a turning point or to let it go and not waste any more time.' He pointed to the official status of Catalan in the European Union as a crucial demand from his party, related to the conditions for supporting Francina Armengol’s candidacy for Congress president.
'An absolute lack of involvement from the government' is how Puigdemont characterized Sánchez's administration, emphasizing that commitments made during negotiations should have been treated more vigorously. He cited the swift action taken by Teresa Ribera when negotiating for a vice presidency in the European Commission as a stark contrast to the treatment of Catalan autonomy issues.
Further complicating matters, Puigdemont criticized the slow judicial progress concerning the Amnesty law, asserting that many independence leaders, himself included, still face legal uncertainties despite its approval. He quipped that 'a complete amnesty is not truly amnesty,' conveying his dissatisfaction with what he perceives as government complacency.
The leader's comments came shortly after his brief return to Barcelona this summer, during which he evaded a potential arrest, turning the spotlight once again onto his controversial position in the Catalan independence movement.
In an impassioned conclusion, Puigdemont has officially requested that Prime Minister Sánchez face a motion of confidence, a procedural move that can only be initiated by the Council of Ministers. As tensions rise between the independence bloc and the central government, the call for accountability may add pressure on Sánchez to clarify his commitments to Catalonia as discussions of self-determination and recognition of regional rights continue to dominate the political landscape.
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