Top Court Weighs Amnesty for Former Catalan Minister
Spain's Constitutional Court has begun deliberations on the first legal appeal concerning the amnesty law as it applies to a prominent figure from the 2017 Catalan independence process, Jordi Turull. The court's decision could set a precedent for how similar cases, including those of Carles Puigdemont and Oriol Junqueras, are handled under current legislation. Turull, a former Catalan government minister, is challenging the Supreme Court's rejection of his amnesty application, which was denied on grounds related to malversation charges. The outcome may clarify whether individuals can benefit from amnesty if they are accused of disposing of public funds without legal authority.
Rapporteur Recommends Upholding Veto
The court's conservative rapporteur has recommended maintaining the veto on Turull's amnesty, arguing that "disposing of what was not possessed implies benefit" under the legal framework. This interpretation suggests that even symbolic authorisation of spending can constitute a financial advantage, undermining eligibility for amnesty. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the rapporteur stated there is no personal animosity toward Turull, emphasising the decision is based solely on legal interpretation. The full court must now deliberate and vote on whether to accept this recommendation.
The ruling could redefine how malversation is assessed in amnesty cases, affecting dozens of others under the same legal umbrella.
The case is among the first to test the boundaries of the national amnesty law passed in 2024, designed to facilitate political reconciliation while respecting judicial integrity. Legal experts are watching closely, as the verdict may influence the fate of multiple pending appeals from former Catalan officials.
Reported by eldiario.es, russpain.com, ARA.
