Carles Puigdemont Returns to Catalonia Despite Arrest Warrant
Carles Puigdemont, the former Catalan leader who has been living in self-imposed exile since a failed independence bid in 2017, made a dramatic return to Barcelona on Thursday, defying a Spanish arrest warrant. His return marks a significant moment in Catalonia’s independence movement, even as he risks arrest under the current legal framework.
As Puigdemont arrived, he was met by large crowds of supporters, wrapped in red and yellow Catalan flags, at the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona. The scene was vibrant with chants of “Puigdemont is our president” and an atmosphere of hope that his return could reignite the pro-independence movement, which has seen its popularity wane in recent years.
Speaking to the enthusiastic crowd, Puigdemont declared, “We have been persecuted for seven years for wanting to hear the voice of the people of Catalonia.” He continued with a passionate shout of “Long live free Catalonia!” but ended his speech with uncertainty about when he might be seen again.
Following the rally, Puigdemont vanished, and his whereabouts became a mystery. Catalan police initiated a “cage operation” with strict vehicle checks throughout Barcelona in an attempt to locate him. Additionally, a Catalan police officer was detained on suspicion of aiding Puigdemont’s escape, leading to a flurry of social media speculation and memes likening the search to a puzzle game set on Barcelona’s busy beaches.
Puigdemont was the Catalan president during the controversial 2017 referendum that nearly split Spain. His unilateral declaration of independence led to severe tensions and a crackdown, deepening the divide between Spanish nationalists and Catalan separatists.
Opposition politicians criticized Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, labeling Puigdemont’s return as a “humiliation” and “parody,” given the failure to detain him. Despite the summer heat and tourist influx in Barcelona, Puigdemont’s supporters continued to rally at the Parliament, clashing with police as they demanded access to their leader.
The scene was notably smaller compared to seven years ago when Puigdemont’s push for independence led to Spain’s most significant constitutional crisis in decades. His party, Together for Catalonia, had significant influence in last year’s Spanish election, securing an amnesty law for those involved in the 2017 bid. This law has partially facilitated Puigdemont’s return, but questions remain about its applicability to him.
Puigdemont is still facing charges of embezzlement, though the terrorism investigation against him was dropped. His return is seen by experts as a final attempt to stay relevant in a changing political landscape where support for independence is dwindling. “It’s Mr. Puigdemont’s last dance,” said Ignacio Lago, a political science professor.
The Republican Left of Catalonia, a more moderate separatist group, has supported a Socialist leader for the regional presidency, and Puigdemont’s return aimed to pressure them into withdrawing their support and potentially triggering new elections. However, Salvador Illa was confirmed as president on Thursday night.
Despite the challenges, Puigdemont’s return has reinvigorated some pro-independence supporters. Laura Borràs, president of Puigdemont’s party, noted the significance of the crowd despite the typical August lull in Barcelona. Puigdemont himself had anticipated the possibility of arrest but viewed his return as a necessary step in the democratic struggle.
Though his secessionist efforts have failed, and his time in exile has been marked by legal challenges, Puigdemont’s recent actions reflect a persistent belief in Catalonia’s right to independence. His return underscores the enduring complexity of Catalonia’s struggle for autonomy, amidst a backdrop of shifting public sentiment and political dynamics.
While the future of Catalonia’s independence movement remains uncertain, the legacy of Puigdemont’s return will likely continue to influence the region’s political landscape.