Spain’s Socialist Party emerged as the frontrunner in the recent Catalan regional election, surpassing the separatist party Junts, according to an exit poll reported by Catalan public television. The Socialists, led by Salvador Illa, are projected to secure between 37 and 40 seats out of the 135-seat regional chamber. However, this falls short of the 68-seat majority required, indicating the need for alliances to form a government.
On the other hand, Junts is expected to clinch between 33 and 36 seats, with the incumbent ERC securing 24 to 27 seats. The election in Catalonia, one of Spain’s affluent regions, presents the possibility of a return to power for a separatist figure or an anti-independence government led by the Socialist Party.
Carles Puigdemont, the candidate for Junts, led the unsuccessful push for Catalan independence in 2017 before fleeing to Belgium. Despite facing legal challenges in Spain, Puigdemont campaigned from France and plans to return to Catalonia following a proposed amnesty by the Madrid government.
With no single party likely to secure a majority, coalition talks are expected to ensue post-election. The outcome could shape the region’s political landscape and impact relations with the Spanish government. Whether the Socialists form an alliance with ERC or Junts, or potentially with the conservative PP, remains uncertain.
While separatists risk losing their parliamentary majority, they could retain power based on varying seat estimates. The possibility of a repeat election in October looms if post-election negotiations falter.
The results of the Catalan election reflect a deeply divided region grappling with diverging views on independence. The path ahead hinges on political alliances, compromise, and the pursuit of a stable government that addresses the needs of the Catalan people amidst ongoing socio-political challenges.
