The political scientist wanted to reflect on the recent concentrations in the streets
The call by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the PP, for his followers to occupy the streets of Spain in opposition to the amnesty law proposed by the PSOE and supported by pro-independence parties, ECR and Junts, has unleashed a strong wave of demonstrations and concentrations. .
In particular, the door of the PSOE headquarters on Ferraz Street, Madrid, has been the epicenter of these protests. Faced with this panorama, political scientist Rafa López points out that The PP must be careful with its response to the amnesty.
López highlights two key aspects in this context. First, The PSOE faces “insurmountable contradictions” when defending the amnesty, since his current position differs from that of two years ago. Secondly, the PP’s exaggerated discourse that presents the amnesty as an imminent threat to the well-being of Spain and democracy could strengthen the position of the PSOE.
This is reflected in surveys, which show that 43% of Spaniards support the amnesty. Although the PSOE has not yet presented its official position, these numbers are not unfavorable for the party, suggesting that the PP should exercise caution.
As López points out, “When the right fills the streets, the left fills the ballot boxes”, a reminder of the influence that mobilizations can have on elections. This is a principle that PP demographers knew well in the past and that the party should consider in the present.