The Challenge of the Presidency
For Catalan politicians who aspire to pursue a political career beyond Fraga, the presidency of the Spanish government represents an unattainable challenge. Although they can access ministerial positions and, with luck, the vice presidency, the presidency is a forbidden territory for them, due to the distrust they generate in the majority of Spaniards.
Even the oath of allegiance to the flag, the king and the Constitution is not enough to overcome this barrier. The reality is that a Catalan can never be President of the Government, regardless of his surname.
Opportunities in Ministries
Given the impossibility of accessing the presidency, Catalan politicians look for opportunities in the ministries. However, achieving ministerial office requires hard work and the ability to navigate the turbulent political waters of their respective parties.
The list of ministers who have faced criticism for lack of skills is extensive, reflecting the complexity of politics in Spain.
The Case of Ernest Urtusun
Ernest Urtasun, a prominent member of Comuns Sumar, has managed to become a minister, demonstrating his ability to use legal strategies to obtain political positions. His appointment has generated mixed opinions, but his promotion represents a milestone for Catalan politicians in Spain.
Although the Ministry of Culture may seem less relevant due to the autonomies, its role is crucial in maintaining the balance between the different regions and ensuring that Madrid remains the cultural center of the country.
Challenges and Expectations
Catalan politicians seeking to make a career in Madrid face the challenge of gaining the trust of their colleagues and the general public. Additionally, they must deal with the negative perception associated with their Catalan origins, which requires additional effort to prove their worth in the Spanish political arena.
Urtasun’s cancellation of the National Bullfighting Award has generated mixed reactions, demonstrating the complexity of cultural policy in Spain and the challenges faced by ministers in this area.
The Role of Ministries and Grants
Cultural ministries and subsidies are sensitive areas that reflect competition and tensions between different regions of Spain. The distribution of funds and the focus on cultural capital are issues that generate debate and controversy, especially in relation to the Catalan origins of some politicians.
In summary, Catalan politicians face significant challenges in pursuing political opportunities in Spain, but their ability to overcome these barriers and contribute to the country’s political and cultural landscape is a topic of ongoing interest and debate.
