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Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

Controversy Surrounds Spain's Amnestía Law Amid EU Commission Scrutiny

The Spanish government defends its amnesty law as the opposition calls for judicial intervention following EU Commission remarks.
The political landscape in Spain is increasingly tense as the ruling coalition faces scrutiny from the European Commission regarding the controversial amnesty law.

The amnesty, which has been labeled as a "self-amnesty" by the Commission, has drawn criticism not only from political opponents but also raises questions about its compliance with European law.

Miguel Tellado, the spokesperson for the People's Party (PP) in Congress, has urged the Constitutional Court to suspend the processing of the amnesty legislation pending a ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU).

This call for judicial intervention follows the release of the European Commission's allegations, which suggest that the law does not serve a general interest and contravenes the rule of law.

The Commission's assertions highlight concerns that key votes from the beneficiaries of the amnesty were instrumental in its parliamentary approval, framing the legislation as part of a political agreement that enabled the formation of the current government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

Pilar Alegría, the government spokesperson, responded to the Commission's findings, emphasizing that the report is "non-binding" and noting that it does not identify any financial harm to the European Union, particularly concerning the management of funds during the Catalan independence process.

The government interprets the Commission's validation of applying the amnesty law in cases of embezzlement as a significant endorsement, particularly for individuals such as Carles Puigdemont, a prominent Catalan separatist leader.

This controversy has provoked a variety of reactions, with PP secretary-general Cuca Gamarra echoing Tellado's claims that the law exemplifies a departure from the principles underpinning the rule of law.

Criticism of the expedited legislative process, which skipped public consultation and advisory opinions, has also been voiced, with some calling it a breach of democratic process.

Meanwhile, coalition partners like Junts, ERC, Podemos, and Sumar have refrained from commenting on the Commission's position, signaling a cautious approach amid the mounting political pressure.

The debate is exacerbated by rising political tensions, as opposition members view the Commission's stance as a warning about the implications of Sánchez's government dealings with separatist factions.

In contrast, some members of the governing coalition maintain a positive outlook on the amnesty law, describing it as a necessary legal remedy in the context of Spain's political landscape.
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