Approval of the Telematic Vote in the Parliament
In a remarkable move, the Catalan Parliament approved on Thursday a reform of the regulations that will facilitate the telematic voting of deputies, as well as expanding the circumstances under which delegation of votes will be allowed. This initiative has materialized thanks to a consensus between PSC, ERC, Junts, the Comuns and the CUP, thus responding to a limitation imposed by the Constitutional Court that previously hindered the participation of legislators in exile.
A Step Forward for the Representation of Deputies in Exile
The reform has come at a significant time, with the participation of ERC MP Rubén Wagensberg, who returned after having been exiled in Geneva. His return occurred once the investigation against him for terrorism was closed. However, figures such as former president Carles Puigdemont and minister Lluís Puig still remain outside Spain.
Voting Details and Results
The amendment to the regulations was supported by 106 votes in favour, with 26 against from the PP and Vox, and two abstentions from Alianza Catalana. Despite its rapid processing and approval, the CUP still does not reach the minimum of five deputies to form its own group, although the new regulations will make this objective easier for them.
Controversies and Comments on the Reform
The plenary rejected an amendment presented by Junts that attempted to eliminate an article from the regulations that establishes the suspension of deputies under investigation for corruption at the time of opening an oral trial. This article has generated a debate about its political use, especially after the suspension of Laura Borràs in a case related to the splitting of contracts.
Defense of the Reform by Legislators
Ferran Pedret, from the PSC, defended the reform, arguing that the endorsement of the Council of Statutory Guarantees was crucial for its legitimacy, and criticised the PP for appearing to revive past tensions associated with the procés.
Future Prospects and Benefits for the CUP
ERC spokesperson Marta Vilalta emphasised that this reform guarantees fundamental rights and recalled that similar attempts had not prospered in the previous legislature. This represents a significant opportunity for the CUP, which after the last elections only had four deputies.
Contrasting Opinions in Parliament
Sílvia Orriols of Alianza Catalana expressed her support for the reform regarding the vote of exiles, but disagreed with the measures that will allow the CUP to form its parliamentary group, citing economic reasons and advocating for an assimilation of the regulations of the Congress regarding this topic.