Tensions are rising within the Junts party: following a series of disagreements with the Socialists and prolonged debates in Congress, the Catalan political landscape has been left in a state of uncertainty. At the center of attention is the possible return of Carles Puigdemont, already being described as a potential turning point for a new chapter in the independence movement’s history. The Junts leadership is openly discussing this move, seeing it as an opportunity to shake up the party and restore supporter confidence.
Meanwhile, the influence of the far right is growing in Catalonia. Aliança Catalana, a party actively attracting disillusioned voters, is aiming to secure up to a quarter of seats in the regional parliament. This is causing concern among traditional political forces, who fear losing ground amid internal crises and voter fatigue with old slogans.
Expectations and concerns
Junts has high hopes for Puigdemont’s return, believing that his homecoming will be a symbol of renewal and help unite the fragmented ranks of independence supporters. This time, it’s not about secret operations, but a public and legitimate return that should restore trust in institutions and in the movement itself.
The key factors for the leader’s return are the adoption of the amnesty law and a favorable opinion from the Advocate General of the European Court regarding the so-called ‘right to be forgotten’ law. If these measures are approved in the coming months, Spain’s Supreme Court may lose the ability to block Puigdemont’s return, making his arrival a reality.
Internal divisions
Despite a confident outward appearance, there is anxiety within Junts. The party leadership avoids self-criticism, preferring to focus on waiting for the ‘X day,’ when Puigdemont’s return is expected to spark change. However, not everyone in the party is convinced this will be enough to overcome the crisis and recover lost ground.
Many independence supporters are disappointed and fatigued by endless promises. Some no longer believe that traditional parties are capable of making meaningful change, and part of the electorate is shifting to new political forces promising radical transformation. In this context, Puigdemont’s return is seen as Junts’ last chance to regain trust and mobilize voters.
Skepticism and challenges
Recent public opinion polls add more uncertainty. According to the Center for Opinion Studies (CEO), support for the traditional parliamentary alliance could decrease by twenty seats. This raises questions about whether a single figure can shift the balance of power—even someone as charismatic as Puigdemont.
Party members admit that without serious outreach to voters and a renewed strategy, the leader’s return might not have the desired impact. Nevertheless, many in Junts continue to hope that this move will help turn things around and restore the party to the center of Catalonia’s political life.
