Spanish authorities in Catalonia are actively searching for former separatist leader Carlos Puigdemont after he made a public appearance in Barcelona, speaking to thousands of his followers for the first time in seven years since his self-imposed exile. His return coincided with the swearing-in of a new Catalan regional government, which does not include his party. Despite a recent amnesty law passed by Spain’s Parliament, the Supreme Court maintains an embezzlement charge against Puigdemont, who has since vanished post-rally. His speech criticized the effectiveness of the amnesty law and implied a democratic issue within the country. The search for Puigdemont involves extensive security measures, including roadblocks and helicopter surveillance.
- Carlos Puigdemont returned to Spain and spoke in Barcelona, marking his first appearance in seven years.
- He criticized the Supreme Court’s stance that the amnesty law does not apply to him, highlighting a perceived problem with democracy in Spain.
- Spain’s Parliament had approved an amnesty law, but the Supreme Court insists an embezzlement charge against Puigdemont stands.
- Following his speech, Puigdemont has disappeared, with authorities conducting an extensive search for him.
- Security measures include roadblocks and helicopter surveillance, particularly focusing on exits towards France, where Puigdemont is based.
- Puigdemont’s return coincided with the swearing-in of a new Catalan regional government, which is the first non-separatist government in 20 years.
- The situation raises questions about police complicity, given Puigdemont’s successful public appearance and subsequent disappearance.
- The journalist suggests Puigdemont’s return might be seen as an act of desperation to rally support amidst a slump in the independence movement.
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