Coronavirus: Spain extends state of emergency for the fifth time

Text by: François Musseau

For the fifth time since mid-March, and this time more than ever in difficulty, controversy and pain, the socialist government of Pedro Sanchez has obtained the extension of the state of emergency. It will be until June 7. The head of government wants this state to last until at least the end of June. Quite a challenge.

Publicity

From our correspondent in Madrid,

The noose tightens on the head of government Pedro Sanchez. His political opponents are strengthening, the far right of Vox demands his resignation, the Conservatives of the Popular Party have cut all ties with him.

Fortunately for him, the socialist leader was able to count on the support of the Basque nationalists and the liberals of Ciudadanos to prolong for the fifth time the state of emergency.

For Pedro Sachez, it is absolutely vital for the country in order to succeed in the very delicate stage of deconfinementand to prevent the Spaniards' efforts from being wasted.

► Read also: Coronavirus and deconfinement in Spain: Madrid remains in zero phase

More than ever, the head of the Socialist government has defended himself from numerous attacks and criticisms, the main one being the accusation of acting alone and of not consulting the opposition parties.

Pedro Sanchez fiercely defended himself from it: “  I lead the government and the government has given priority to dialogue, negotiation and the search for agreements. This in all areas of the State with our social partners as well as at European level. Ladies and gentlemen, we have held 23 Council of Ministers and this chamber has been requested nine times. "

The game is not easy for the socialist leader. He has certainly had 15 more days to maintain the state of emergency, but his room for maneuver is narrower every day. On June 7, he will have to ask Parliament for a further adjournment until the end of the month. A goal far from guaranteed.

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• Spain
• Coronavirus
• Pedro Sanchez
• Confinement

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