Court Demands Personal Attendance of Jordi Pujdol at Corruption Trial

In Madrid, judges of the National Court have decided to summon 95-year-old former Catalan president Jordi Pujol for an in-person hearing in a corruption case. The court explained that it intends to personally assess whether the accused is able to participate in the proceedings, despite documented medical deterioration of cognitive functions. This decision sparked strong protest among Catalan politicians and became a topic of national debate.

The judicial panel, chaired by Ricardo de Prada, explained to attorneys during a closed session that Pujol’s personal appearance is necessary to rule out age-based bias and to objectively evaluate his condition. The judges emphasized that they do not want to allow ‘ageism’ and want to make sure that neither age nor health prevent the accused from defending his interests. Before questioning begins, a forensic doctor from the National Court will examine Pujol again, after which a final decision will be made on his participation in the process.

Previously, Pujol appeared in court via video link, where he stated that he understood the nature of the charges, although he admitted to certain health-related difficulties. However, medical experts then concluded that his cognitive condition did not allow him to defend himself fully. Despite this, the court continued hearing the case, promising to revisit the issue of his condition immediately before questioning.

The response to Pujdol’s summons to Madrid was sharp: representatives of Junts and ERC called the decision a “public humiliation,” while Catalan government head Salvador Illa urged the court to show common sense and not force the elderly politician to travel to the capital. Similar arguments over the participation of high-ranking defendants in judicial proceedings have already surfaced in Spain—for example, during discussions of former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s testimony in the Kitchen case, which was detailed in the russpain.com report.

The final decision on whether Pujdol can be questioned is expected after a medical examination in the coming days. The corruption trial itself is ongoing, and attention to the defendant’s health remains at the center of public and political focus.