Juan Lobato, secretary general of the PSOE, justified the party’s support for Joseba Asirón (Bildu) in his bid to become the mayor of Pamplona in a motion of no confidence against the PP, while refusing to endorse the candidate of the Basque nationalist party, Pello Otxandiano, for lehendakari. Lobato highlighted the fact that Asirón had condemned ETA while the terrorist group was still active, emphasizing the substantial difference in their positions. This comes in the midst of controversy surrounding Otxandiano’s description of ETA as an “armed group”, prompting apologies for potentially offending victims.
Lobato pointed out the clear stance taken by the leader of the PSE-EE, Eneko Andueza, who has expressed support for the PNV. Lobato questioned Otxandiano’s comments both in ethical and strategic terms, suggesting that they do not align with democratic principles. While acknowledging the need for political alliances to ensure the functioning of the national legislature and the specific case of Pamplona, Lobato maintained that there are differences between the political dynamics in Euskadi and other contexts.
In response to criticism over the PSOE’s alliances at various levels of government, Lobato emphasized the importance of having a coherent national project and allowing each party to take responsibility for their own votes in congress. He defended the complex and uncomfortable decisions made by the party, acknowledging the particularities of local politics while also recognizing the challenges faced. Despite the complexities involved, Lobato reiterated the need to prioritize the broader goals of the party and navigate the diverse political landscape.
The controversy surrounding the PSOE’s support for Bildu in Pamplona while rejecting their candidate in Euskadi highlights the delicate balance between local and regional politics within the party. Lobato’s explanation of the decision-making process reflects a pragmatic approach to political alliances and the need to navigate complex scenarios. The differing positions taken by party leaders in relation to ETA and the potential impact on victims illustrate the challenges faced in reconciling competing interests and priorities within the PSOE.
As the campaign for the Basque elections continues, Lobato’s defense of the PSOE’s position sheds light on the internal dynamics and strategic considerations at play within the party. The divergent responses to ETA and the implications for broader political alliances underscore the importance of navigating delicate issues with sensitivity and strategic foresight. Ultimately, Lobato’s justification for supporting Bildu in Pamplona while distancing the party from Otxandiano in Euskadi reflects a nuanced approach to political decision-making in complex and challenging contexts.
