The approval of the amnesty law
After Congress has definitively approved the amnesty law, Oriol Junqueras has appeared before the media to celebrate this achievement for Catalonia and for democrats in general. According to Junqueras, this law should not be the end point of the independence process, but rather a starting point to move forward and call a new referendum. Gabriel Rufián has also indicated that the next step must be holding a referendum. Junqueras has highlighted that the first beneficiaries will be little-known people, since it will be easier for them to have the law applied to them. However, he has also warned that some courts could hinder its implementation. Now, the ball is in the judges’ court and there is uncertainty about how they will act.
Reactions and criticism
The Popular Party has announced that it will present appeals against the approved law, which has not surprised Junqueras. According to him, there is a great coalition between the PP, Vox and a part of the judiciary that acts as a third legislative chamber. Regarding the stability of Pedro Sánchez’s government, Junqueras has stated that what guarantees stability is the commitment to democracy. Furthermore, he recalled that ERC has defended the amnesty for years, despite criticism from other pro-independence parties and the PSOE itself. On the other hand, the moment of truce between ERC and Junts in Congress has stood out, where both parties have exchanged kind words. However, Junqueras has downplayed this gesture, stating that it is always good to speak kind words to everyone.
The future of independence
Regarding the future of the independence movement, Junqueras has indicated that the approval of the amnesty is an important step, but it is not enough. According to him, it is necessary to continue working and call a new referendum so that the citizens of Catalonia can decide their future. He highlighted that ERC has been a pioneer in defending the amnesty and has celebrated that more and more people are joining this cause. In this sense, he has thanked the work carried out by leaders such as Carles Puigdemont, Joan Tardà and other members of Junts. In summary, Junqueras has expressed his optimism and commitment to democracy, making it clear that the independence movement will not stop with the approval of the amnesty law.
