Catalan separatist leader Carles Puigdemont returned to Spain after seven years of self-imposed exile in Belgium, facing a pending warrant for his arrest. He addressed a crowd of supporters in Barcelona, expressing his continued commitment to the cause of Catalan independence. Puigdemont’s potential arrest could create new unrest in Catalonia, as his party plays a key role in the regional government. The Socialists are expected to take control in Catalonia, hoping to move past the independence movement that has lost momentum in recent years. However, tensions remain high as far-right party Vox planned a counterprotest against Puigdemont’s return.
Despite a recent amnesty law pardoning those involved in the failed 2017 secession bid, Puigdemont and two others still face arrest warrants. Puigdemont maintains that the referendum was not illegal, disputing the charges against him. His return to Spain has reignited debate over Catalan independence and Spain’s political future. The appearance of Puigdemont at the regional parliament for the investiture vote signals further uncertainty and potential conflict as Catalonia navigates its complex political landscape.
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