Internal and external criticism of Rufián
Catalan independence, with its various voices, has put in the spotlight the figure of Gabriel Rufián, ERC spokesman for Congress. His controversial answers during a recent interview with Jordi Évole have revived the criticisms that even within his party have accumulated over time.
A remarkable defeat
Among the disseminated voices is Miquel Àngel Estradé, a history of ERC politics and former mayor with a 28 -year career. Estradé has expressed his disenchantment because Evole did not address Rufián’s clear defeat in the municipalities of 2023, where his candidacy for Santa Coloma did not achieve 15% of the votes, despite his attempt to transform the local political context.
Defeat context
Rufián, with a great media echo, had focused his hopes on a historical feud of socialism, but the results were not expected. Estradé recalls that, despite its strategy, the support did not arrive. “Maybe they know him well,” he added, emphasizing the disenchantment of many militants.
Defenders and criticism of Rufián
However, Rufián also has supporters. Francesc Roca, a member of ERC, has argued that Rufián’s result is a ‘success’ in terms of doubling the votes in Santa Coloma. Others like Cesc Iglesias have stated that they would sign 15% support in other regions of the Baix Besòs and Baix Llobregat, although Estradé believes that this approach could be inappropriate.
Growing discontent with ERC direction
Estradé, who has taken a distance from the current ERC lines, has been very critical of the party leadership, especially in terms of his position on issues such as immigration and alliances with the PSOE/PSC. He has warned that there is a significant sector of the electorate that could opt for alternatives such as Catalan Alliance due to its displeasure with the traditional left.
A growing division
The division within the ERC is being amplified, with an increasing number of leaders who are disassociated to seek new political options. This situation contrasts with the consolidation of figures such as Oriol Junqueras and Rufián, who continue to dominate the political scene of the party.
The future of ERC and Rufián
After the municipal elections of 2023, the voices within the ERC have raised the removal of Rufián. However, Junqueras not only rejected these requests, but also reaffirmed his confidence in Rufián for the next general election. This decision emphasizes the importance of Rufián within the new ERC strategy under the leadership of Junqueras.
ERC’s internal dynamics, as well as his relationship with the independence movement, continues to evolve, and Rufián’s role will be key to understanding the next chapters of this political story.