Catalan independence put on hold: Constitutional court suspends vote
- 10 years ago
Catalonia’s hopes for independence were slowed down on Monday (September 29) when Spain’s constitutional court decided to suspend a planned referendum on the issue.
Catalan authorities recently stated the vote would take place on November 9, but it seems their plans will now be put on hold.
Artur Mas, the president of the north eastern region, was surprised at the speed of the court’s decision, which was apparently made during a one-hour emergency meeting.
“The speed in which Spain’s constitutional court organised the meeting broke the sound barrier – they didn’t even wait a day to announce an initial decision,” he said.
While the meeting was taking place, Mas presented a ‘white book’ outlining the steps Catalonia would have to take in the event of independence.
Madrid has always fought against an election on separation and originally asked the court to declare the vote illegal.
While this has not happened, the referendum will now be suspended until a final ruling is made on its legality.
Catalan authorities have 20 days to appeal against the decision.
Catalan authorities recently stated the vote would take place on November 9, but it seems their plans will now be put on hold.
Artur Mas, the president of the north eastern region, was surprised at the speed of the court’s decision, which was apparently made during a one-hour emergency meeting.
“The speed in which Spain’s constitutional court organised the meeting broke the sound barrier – they didn’t even wait a day to announce an initial decision,” he said.
While the meeting was taking place, Mas presented a ‘white book’ outlining the steps Catalonia would have to take in the event of independence.
Madrid has always fought against an election on separation and originally asked the court to declare the vote illegal.
While this has not happened, the referendum will now be suspended until a final ruling is made on its legality.
Catalan authorities have 20 days to appeal against the decision.