The rejection of the government's new housing bill in the Spanish parliament has pushed the political crisis toward a decision for early elections. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called for early elections following the defeat in the vote. The Spanish parliament has been dissolved to pave the way for the early election expected to be held on November 29.
The government failed to pass a housing package in the Assembly aimed at reducing growing public backlash against rising rents and evictions. This defeat signaled that the Sanchez government's support in parliament has weakened and that it is struggling to implement critical regulations.
Sanchez had stood out as one of the long-serving leaders in European politics. While he gained attention within left-wing politics for his renewable energy policies, inclusive approach to migration, and positions on international issues, his domestic support had recently eroded due to corruption allegations, the migration crisis, and economic pressures.
HOUSING CRISIS HAD TAKEN TO THE STREETS
Before the housing regulation was rejected, tens of thousands of people had taken to the streets across the country. Approximately 50 marches were held in cities including Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona; the demonstrations revealed the growing reaction against high rent increases and evictions.
One of the events that sparked the protests was the eviction of an 87-year-old woman from her home because she could not afford a high rent increase. A spokesperson for the Valencia Tenants' Union described the mood in the country by saying, "There is great anger in the streets."
One of the largest demonstrations was held in the capital, Madrid. Estimates regarding the number of participants varied: the Madrid Tenants' Union announced that 500,000 people attended the demonstration, while authorities stated this number was 70,000. Protesters carried banners reading "No peace for the rental order" and "I study to have a future, not to live in a tiny apartment."
It was reported that clashes broke out between protesters and police in Valencia, with nine police officers injured and five people detained. Spanish police also announced that three people from a far-right group attempting to reach protesters at Puerta del Sol square in Madrid were detained.
The housing crisis is expected to be at the center of the election campaign. Sanchez's Socialist Party will attempt to remobilize left-wing voters against their conservative rivals, who are leading in the polls. The early election process is seen as a critical test for both the future of the government and the debates on social policy in Spain.
News Source: 12punto
