Spanish Prime Minister Calls for Early Elections After Legislative Defeat

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced early elections following a significant setback in Parliament. The elections are scheduled for November 29. This decision comes after Sánchez’s government faced a defeat over emergency measures addressing Spain’s housing crisis.

Recent protests in cities across Spain have highlighted the public’s demand for better housing affordability. Outrage grew especially after the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid. Right-wing opposition parties united to block emergency decrees aimed at reducing evictions and curbing real estate speculation.

In a televised address, Sánchez emphasized that a stronger progressive coalition is needed in Parliament to address the country’s pressing challenges. “The time has come for the Spanish people to decide what future you want for yourselves and for your country,” he stated.

Sánchez, aged 54, has been in office since 2018, making him one of Europe’s longest-serving leaders. His international prominence stems from his stances on migration, support for Palestinians, and criticism of U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran. Spain’s economy has also experienced rapid growth recently.

Domestically, Sánchez has faced challenges, including legal cases involving his Socialist party and his family. The border crossings by numerous Moroccans into Ceuta, Spain’s North African territory, have also posed problems, with a humanitarian crisis unfolding there.

Sánchez leads a coalition government with the left-wing junior partner Sumar, but he has struggled due to reliance on smaller parties for legislative support. Known for his resilience in elections, Sánchez is preparing for a challenging contest with the conservative Popular Party, which holds the most seats in Parliament and aims to regain control.

The Cabinet will convene later Monday to approve the formal dissolution of Parliament.