The unexpected move comes as Spain prepares to assume the rotating presidency of the European Union, with the right-wing Popular Party emerging as the leading political force in the country.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for an early general election on July 23, following his Socialist party's serious setback in local and regional elections. "I have taken this decision given the results of the elections held yesterday," Sánchez stated from the Moncloa presidential palace. Prior to the electoral defeat, he had indicated that an election would be held in December, intending to ride out his four-year term with coalition partner United We Can.
However, the recent losses prompted the unexpected move. The timing is critical as Spain is set to assume the rotating presidency of the European Union on July 1. "I personally assume the results," emphasized Sánchez, acknowledging the impact of the vote beyond the local and regional scope. The leading opposition party, the right-wing Popular Party (PP), emerged as the main political force in the country. "This is unexpected," said political scientist Ignacio Jurado, highlighting Sánchez's attempt to counter the PP's rapid rise.
According to the reports by France 24, The municipal vote saw the PP securing 31.5% of votes compared to the Socialists' 28.2%. The PP won in seven of the 12 regions contested, including Valencia, Aragon, and La Rioja, previously held by the PSOE. The collapse of the centrist Citizens party contributed to the PP's success. It remains uncertain whether the PP will need to form regional governments with the far-right party Vox.
(With AP Inputs)"