Violent Protests Over Proposed Amnesty for Catalan Separatists Intensify Pressure on Spain's Acting Government

Continuing unrest sees thousands gather outside Socialist Party headquarters while negotiations between Prime Minister Sanchez and Catalan separatist groups grapple with tense talks amping up pressure on Sanchez to form new government by November 27.

Violent protests erupted outside the Socialist Party headquarters in Madrid, with thousands expressing their discontent over a proposed amnesty plan for Catalan separatists. Riot police used rubber bullets and tear gas to manage the crowds, leading to the arrests of several protesters.
Spain's acting Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, is offering amnesty to Catalan separatist parties in exchange for their support following inconclusive general election results. The controversial amnesty plan is for hundreds of Catalans involved in the region's failed attempt to secede from Spain in 2017.
The amnesty bill has triggered widespread criticism and unrest, with opposition parties blaming Sanchez for the violence. Conservative and far-right parties argue this potential law undermines Spain's rule of law for political gains.
Among those potentially impacted by the proposed amnesty are over a thousand Catalan politicians, officials, and activists prosecuted over the failed separatist bid. Notable among them is Carles Puigdemont, the former Catalan leader who unilaterally declared Catalonia's independence before fleeing to Brussels.
Sanchez has until November 27 to form a new government. If he fails, a new election will have to be held on January 14, 2024. The amnesty bill forms a significant part of his negotiations with pro-independence party lawmakers, whose support is essential for forming a new government.