MADRID: In a closely-watched parliamentary maneuver, Spanish lawmakers orchestrated a significant victory for the Socialist party as they elected Francina Armengol, 52, as the parliamentary speaker. This pivotal session is being regarded as a prelude to a critical investiture vote, holding substantial implications for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s aspirations to return to office following an inconclusive July election.
The outcome of Thursday’s vote is being perceived as a positive omen for Sanchez’s prospects, as the Socialist candidate secured the role of parliamentary speaker with an absolute majority of 178 votes out of the 350-seat chamber. This achievement underscores the party’s ability to forge alliances and build support within the legislature.
Armengol’s election was clinched following a last-minute agreement with the hardline Catalan separatist party JxCat, a party that has garnered the role of kingmaker due to the delicate balance of power in the parliament. JxCat’s seven lawmakers cast pivotal votes that proved decisive in Armengol’s successful bid for the third-highest office in Spain, following the king and the prime minister.
Sanchez’s Chances to Return to as Spanish PM
The inconclusive July polls left both the left and right factions short of the working majority threshold of 176 representatives. In this intricate political landscape, the influence of JxCat has become particularly pronounced, as evidenced by their role in the speaker election.
The positive outcome of the speaker election is seen as a promising sign for Sanchez’s ambitions. However, experts caution that the intricate negotiations for the forthcoming investiture vote will likely present substantial challenges. Federico Santi, an analyst at Eurasia Group in London, noted that while winning the speaker vote is encouraging for Sanchez, it does not guarantee his appointment for another term, given the complexity of satisfying JxCat’s demands.
The dynamics of the Spanish political arena were further highlighted during the session, as the right-wing Popular Party (PP), led by Alberto Nunez-Feijoo, faced challenges in securing support. The PP, despite winning the election, found itself needing the support of the far-right Vox party to form a government. However, Vox’s decision to vote for its own candidate instead of the PP’s nominee underscored the intricate coalition dynamics at play.
With the selection of a speaker complete, the focus now shifts to the prime ministerial role. The investiture vote, set to take place later this month or in early September, will determine the head of the government.
