The Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) is clear: the presidency of the Generalitat of Catalonia is the priority, even if it may compromise the governance of Spain. This is the shared opinion of government members, the federal executive of the PSOE, and various party federations consulted by EL PAÍS following a series of final polls indicating that the PSC candidate will achieve a clear victory. Many within the PSOE believe that seizing the opportunity to deal a final blow to the consequences of the events of October 1 after over a decade of Catalan independence push would be a significant political milestone. The PSOE is determined not to renounce the possibility of gaining more territorial power by sacrificing the Catalonian presidency just to hold onto the government a few more months.
The prospects of Salvador Illa winning the presidency of the Generalitat and the positive outcome of the elections in the Basque Country have led many within the PSOE to believe that this would serve as a counterbalance to the territorial power of the conservative PP, which governs 12 communities and the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla. They see Illa’s victory as a potential catalyst for national politics, aiming to strengthen the party’s territorial structure for the future. The PSOE members are reluctant to allow Puigdemont to dictate terms and are willing to consider alliances with different political parties to ensure governance in Catalonia and prevent the break-up of the country.
As the countdown to the elections on May 12 approaches, Ferraz, the headquarters of the PSOE, emphasizes that the policy of alliances for Salvador Illa will be decided by the PSC. They are confident in Illa’s victory and in his ability to govern Catalonia, rejecting any alternative scenario. The PSOE anticipates that a victory for Illa will provide a tremendous boost for Prime Minister Sánchez ahead of the European elections, signaling a decisive turn away from the Catalan independence movement. Forming a government with a strong representation in the Catalonian parliament is seen as a crucial step in stabilizing the situation and potentially paving the way for further alliances with different political factions.
In the lead-up to the elections, the PSOE members are united in their support for Salvador Illa, recognizing his clear and consistent stance on governance in Catalonia. They believe that Illa’s approach has significantly weakened the pro-independence movement after years of political turmoil in the region. While prioritizing governance at the national level, there is a consensus within the party that maintaining a strong territorial structure is equally vital for the long-term success of the PSOE. The prospect of Illa’s victory is seen as a potential turning point in Spanish politics, with the party ready to navigate complex alliances to secure governance and stability in Catalonia and beyond.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties ahead, the PSOE remains resolute in its commitment to Salvador Illa’s candidacy and the potential impact of his victory on the political landscape of Catalonia and Spain. The party sees these elections as a crucial opportunity to consolidate power at both the regional and national levels, setting the stage for a stronger and more resilient political structure across the country. Ultimately, the PSOE’s strategic focus on governance in Catalonia reflects a broader commitment to effectively managing the complex dynamics of Spanish politics and steering the country towards a path of stability and progress.
