What's happened
Carles Puigdemont announces his candidacy for Catalonia's regional elections in May, expressing confidence in the Catalan amnesty bill allowing his return. Catalonia's president, Pere Aragonès, calls for early regional elections on May 12.
Why it matters
Carles Puigdemont's decision to run in the regional elections and Pere Aragonès' call for early elections mark a crucial moment in Catalonia's political landscape. The outcome will determine the future direction of the region's separatist movement and relations with Spain.
What the papers say
France 24 reports Puigdemont's announcement and his intention to campaign from abroad. Politico highlights Puigdemont's confidence in the amnesty bill and the uncertainty surrounding his return. The Independent covers Puigdemont's exile and his plan to return to Spain.
How we got here
Carles Puigdemont, former president of Catalonia, fled to Belgium in 2017 after a failed secession attempt. The Catalan amnesty bill aims to clear him and other supporters of Catalan independence. Pere Aragonès, current president of Catalonia, has pursued political negotiations with the Spanish government.
Common question
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Carles Puigdemont i Casamajó is a Catalan pro-independence politician and journalist from Spain. Since 2019 he has served as a Member of the European Parliament.
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Pere Aragonès i Garcia is a Catalan lawyer and politician from Catalonia. He is the current Vice President and Minister of Economy and Finance of Catalonia. Since 28 September 2020, he is also the Acting President of the Government of Catalonia.