Quim Torra considers it a mistake to separate the amnesty law from the right to self-determination
The former president of the Generalitat Quim Torra has expressed his opinion on the amnesty law and has considered it a mistake to separate it from the right to self-determination. In an interview with Europa Press, Torra stated that, in his opinion, these two issues should go together and not separate. Despite considering that the law was necessary, he has criticized that it excludes the crimes of terrorism.
The independence movement and the force against repression
According to Torra, the independence movement has generated a force against repression, but this situation has caused the right to self-determination and independence to be increasingly forgotten. Torra considers this situation as a mistake that will have negative consequences in the future.
Doubts about amnesty and terrorist crimes
Despite celebrating the plight of all those who will be able to benefit from the amnesty, Torra has expressed doubts about whether this amnesty will cover everyone, especially people who may be accused or convicted of terrorism. According to Torra, the red line to determine whether this amnesty will be worth it is the situation of people who are currently at risk of being convicted or charged with terrorism.
Amendments to the amnesty law
Torra has acknowledged that the amendments incorporated into the amnesty law improve the text, but has emphasized that the inclusion of terrorism as an exception remains a mistake. Although Junts agreed with the PSOE and ERC to include terrorism offenses adapted to European standards, Torra believes that this inclusion should not have happened.
The relationship with the State and independence
Torra has expressed his skepticism about the possibility that a policy of pacts with the State could bring independence closer. He considers that the pro-independence parties have had opportunities to obtain anti-repressive concessions, but they have not taken advantage of them. Despite this, Torra has stated that if he wants to reconsider this situation, he sees it as good, but personally he remains anchored in 2015.
The possible return of Carles Puigdemont
Regarding the possible return of the former president of the Generalitat Carles Puigdemont, Torra believes that he will be able to return with the approval of the amnesty, but it will not be immediately. Torra anticipates that there will be appeals and counter-appeals, and that may delay his return. Nevertheless, he hopes that Puigdemont will have a reception equal to what his struggle outside Catalonia has meant (https://www.softcatala.org/resum-de-textos-en-catala/).
The opinions of the exiles
Torra has urged to ask Carles Puigdemont and the other exiles what they want it to mean and how they want to approach their return. He considers it important to listen to their proposals and take their opinions into account.
