Tensions have reignited in Spanish politics: this time, the focus is on a conflict between the head of the Basque Country, Imanol Pradales, and Madrid president Isabel Díaz Ayuso. The controversy arose after Pradales gave a speech at a rally in Vitoria where he voiced support for the Basque language and culture. However, Ayuso interpreted his remarks as allusions to threats associated with the former terrorist organization ETA.
Ayuso publicly accused Pradales of using rhetoric reminiscent of slogans that radicals had employed in the past to pressure politicians and officials. She stated that she heard a phrase in his speech allegedly evoking times of violence, which caused her considerable concern. However, it later emerged that the head of the Basque Country had made no such remarks. His address was focused exclusively on defending the Basque language and calling for respect for the region’s cultural identity.
Pradales responded swiftly. He expressed deep indignation at the way his words had been distorted and stressed that he considered it unacceptable to associate his name with an era of threats and intimidation. In his view, such accusations only underscore a style of debate he deems inappropriate for modern Spain. Pradales emphasized that his goal was to highlight the importance of preserving and developing Basque identity, not to provoke conflict.
Recalling the recent conference in Barcelona, where Ayuso left the hall when Pradales began to speak in Basque, the regional leader once again drew attention to the issue of respect for the country’s linguistic diversity. He believes that such behavior demonstrates disregard for the culture and traditions of the Basque Country, which cannot be ignored. According to Pradales, most people in the region do not support aggressive rhetoric and do not want to return to the methods of the past. He emphasized that he does not intend to yield to provocations and will continue to uphold the values important to Basque society.
A day has passed since Ayuso’s sharp statements, yet there has been no apology from Madrid. Pradales believes that such incidents only highlight the need for open and honest dialogue between Spain’s regions, based on mutual respect and recognition of cultural differences.
