Catalan separatist leader Carles Puigdemont announced his return to Spain after seven years of self-imposed exile, risking arrest for his involvement in the region’s 2017 independence movement. His potential arrest could reignite tensions in Catalonia and threaten Spain’s delicate ruling coalition.
Puigdemont’s return was made possible by an amnesty law approved by Spain’s parliament in May, aimed at canceling legal actions against separatists related to the 2017 referendum. However, the Supreme Court ruled last month that the amnesty does not cover the embezzlement charges against Puigdemont, leading to the continued arrest warrant against him.
Despite the risks, Puigdemont affirmed his commitment by stating that he will be in Barcelona on Thursday. His return coincides with the session to appoint socialist Salvador Ila as the new Catalan president. The unfolding events promise political intrigue and potential upheaval in the region.
(Source: Reuters)