Spain’s political scene is witnessing a significant legal battle as Attorney General Álvaro García Ortiz pushes for the application of amnesty to former Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and other leaders involved in the Catalan independence movement, known as the ‘procés’. Despite strong resistance from Supreme Court prosecutors, García Ortiz insists that the amnesty law should cover all related actions, including the malversation of public funds, which is at the heart of the controversy. The prosecutors have been directed to put their objections in writing, and if unresolved, the dispute may be taken up by the Council of Prosecors.This insistence on amnesty has sparked a political firestorm, with the conservative PP party demanding García Ortiz’s immediate resignation, accusing him of compromising justice and acting under the influence of President Pedro Sánchez. The case has implications not only for the individuals involved but also for Spain’s broader struggle with regional independence movements and the role of the judiciary in political matters. The Audiencia de Barcelona is set to decide on a related case involving 17 officials accused of embezzlement during the preparation for the 1-O referendum. The outcome of these legal and political confrontations will likely have lasting effects on Spain’s governance and the contentious issue of Catalan independence.
Key points
- Spanish Attorney General Álvaro García Ortiz is advocating for amnesty for Catalan independence leaders, including for malversation charges.
- Supreme Court prosecutors oppose the amnesty, particularly for financial crimes, setting up a legal confrontation.
- The PP has called for García Ortiz’s resignation over the amnesty controversy, alleging political bias.
- The Audiencia de Barcelona will decide on a pardon for 17 officials involved in the 1-O referendum preparations.
Contradictions👾While García Ortiz supports amnesty for all ‘procés’-related conduct, Supreme Court prosecutors and the PP oppose it, particularly for malversation, citing concerns over personal gain and EU financial interests.
