Salvador Illa Takes Office Amidst Catalonia's Political Tensions
In a dramatic turn of events in Catalonia, Salvador Illa has been invested as the new president of the Generalitat, securing the position with the backing of the PSC, ERC, and Comuns. The voting process unfolded with no unexpected developments, resulting in a narrow victory with 68 votes in favor and 66 against. Illa celebrated the outcome, stating, "A good path begins," but the atmosphere was soon overshadowed by the unexpected return of Carles Puigdemont, the former Catalan president, who disrupted the investiture proceedings.
Following Puigdemont's highly publicized rally near Parliament, he managed to evade the Mossos police, causing a significant stir. His unexpected appearance added tension to an already fraught investiture session that had begun earlier in the day. The assembly faced a lengthy suspension as tensions mounted, with Junts trying to postpone proceedings until the situation calmed. However, PSC, ERC, and Comuns countered, bringing the session back to order after 4:30 PM for further debate and voting.
ERC's support for Illa was a calculated move from their base, but they emphasized it was a cautious endorsement. The parliamentary group's president, Josep Maria Jové, stressed that the support comes with stipulations, stating, "ERC will not hesitate to switch to opposition if Illa does not comply." As the new president, Illa acknowledged the uncertainties of his position, realizing the fragile nature of his majority.
Jéssica Albiach, president of Comuns, echoed similar sentiments, clarifying that their support should not be perceived as an unconditional trust, especially as she aligned herself with Puigdemont's cause. Illa, in response to concerns from his coalition partners, assured his intention to honor the agreements made, advocating for a collaborative approach to governance to restore faith in Catalonia's institutions.
Outside of the voting chamber, Junts expressed disappointment over the newly formed coalition. Albert Batet, the leader of the post-convergent group, firmly criticized Illa's presidency, claiming that he would operate merely as a puppet for the PSOE and the Spanish government. Batet argued that with Illa in power, Catalonia would effectively impose a self-inflicted 155—referring to the Spanish government's article empowering it to take control of regional governments—stating, "With the investiture of Mr. Illa, Catalonia imposes a 155 on itself."
Criticism from the right intensified as Alejandro Fernández, leader of the Catalan PP, contended that Illa's presidency represents not a new phase but rather a revival of the controversial procés, asserting that this pact signals a step backward for the region. The sentiment among opposition parties was further echoed by Vox's Ignacio Garriga, who lambasted the coalition agreement while vowing to take legal action against those aiding Puigdemont's evasion from justice.
As Illa embarks on his presidency, the landscape remains charged with political complexity. His government, lacking a solid majority, faces the daunting challenge of navigating Catalonia's contentious political waters, all while meeting the expectations of coalition partners wary of past failures. The road ahead for Illa and Catalonia is fraught with uncertainty and the potential for further upheaval.
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