In recent days, Spain has witnessed a surge in right-wing protests against acting prime minister Pedro Sánchez and his controversial amnesty plan. These protests highlight the mounting tensions and deep divisions within the country as Sánchez attempts to negotiate a new government and secure the parliamentary support of Catalan separatists.
On Tuesday, approximately 7,000 demonstrators gathered outside Sánchez’s Socialist party headquarters in Madrid. The protest turned violent, resulting in injuries to both police officers and demonstrators. Similar protests have been occurring on a daily basis, with tensions escalating further in this recent demonstration. The right-wing opposition, led by the conservative People’s Party (PP), has accused Sánchez of using the amnesty plan as a political survival tactic.
The controversy revolves around the demand for amnesty for several hundred Catalan politicians and activists who are facing legal action for their involvement in the failed bid for Catalan independence in 2017. In order to secure the support of the pro-independence parties, Sánchez has agreed to include the amnesty in his negotiations. This move has sparked outrage from the opposition, who argue that it violates the constitution and will encourage further secessionist attempts.
The amnesty plan represents a significant shift in Sánchez’s position, as he had previously deemed such a measure unconstitutional. The right-wing opposition claims that the plan undermines Spain’s territorial unity and threatens the constitutional democracy. Former Prime Minister José María Aznar and PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo have strongly criticized Sánchez, calling him a danger to Spanish democracy.
The protests against the amnesty plan have been largely organized by right-wing groups, although the PP has not officially endorsed or condemned the demonstrations. Santiago Abascal, the leader of the far-right Vox party, has called for sustained mobilization against the amnesty and has urged police officers to disobey “illegal” orders from superiors during protests.
While the Socialist Party members have voted to endorse the deal with the pro-independence parties, several senior party veterans have spoken out against the amnesty. Former Prime Minister Felipe González warns that granting convicted Catalan politicians special treatment through the amnesty would jeopardize social peace in Spain.
The controversy over the amnesty plan has also spilled into the judiciary, with conservative members of the General Council of the Judiciary warning of potential threats to democracy, fundamental liberties, and the rule of law. The left-leaning members have opposed the motion, further deepening the political and judicial divide.
These mounting tensions and violent protests pose significant challenges for the stability and unity of Spain. The dispute over the amnesty plan has further polarized the country along political, regional, and ideological lines. The outcome of the investiture vote and the implementation of the amnesty plan will have far-reaching consequences for the future of Spanish politics and society.
