Aliança Catalana has surged to third place in Catalonia, according to the latest CEO poll. The party faces internal friction as it expands rapidly. Its rise signals a shift in the region's political landscape.
Aliança Catalana has rapidly climbed to third place in Catalonia's political rankings, according to the latest survey by the CEO of the Generalitat. The party, led by Sílvia Orriols, is now positioned to potentially gain even more influence, with projections suggesting it could secure over 30 seats in the regional parliament. This unexpected surge has unsettled established parties, particularly Junts, which now faces the prospect of a diminished role in the legislature.
The party's momentum has triggered immediate reactions. Shortly after the poll results were released, Junts announced the reactivation of a parliamentary commission to sanction Sílvia Orriols for her previous comments on the Islamic veil. This move highlights the growing tension between Aliança Catalana and other political groups, as traditional alliances and rivalries are tested by the party's rise.
Aliança Catalana's growth is drawing support primarily from voters dissatisfied with existing options. The party's appeal is rooted less in a defined political program and more in a shared sense of frustration and desire for change. This pattern mirrors the earlier trajectories of Ciudadanos, Podemos, Vox, and Sumar, which also experienced rapid ascents fueled by public discontent before facing their own challenges.
However, the party's swift expansion has exposed internal strains. In its rush to fill candidate lists, Aliança Catalana has attracted individuals with diverse and sometimes conflicting backgrounds. The recent inclusion of Xavier Capelles López, a former Fuerza Nueva member who also ran for the European Parliament with Comunión Tradicionalista Carlista, has already led to departures from the party. Some members argue that such additions are at odds with Aliança Catalana's identity, raising questions about cohesion and long-term stability.
Political analysts note that parties built on transient moods often struggle to maintain momentum. As seen with previous movements, initial enthusiasm can give way to internal disputes, management errors, or even corruption cases. While these parties can temporarily reshape the political landscape, their influence may fade as quickly as it appeared. For now, Aliança Catalana's rise is altering the balance of power in Catalonia, but its future remains uncertain.
Unlike traditional nationalist parties, Aliança Catalana has stated it will not participate in national elections, with Sílvia Orriols emphasizing her focus on Catalonia. This marks a departure from previous regional movements that sought to influence national politics. The party's current support is largely seen as a protest vote against established parties, and attempts to isolate it through political 'cordons sanitaires' may only reinforce its outsider status.
For context, Catalonia has a history of political volatility, with new parties frequently emerging in response to shifting public sentiment. The region's electorate has shown a willingness to back movements that promise change, even if their platforms remain vague. As Aliança Catalana navigates its rapid growth, its ability to manage internal divisions and maintain voter trust will be critical. The coming months will test whether the party can translate its current momentum into lasting influence or if it will follow the pattern of previous short-lived political surges.
