MEPs are preparing an open letter citing strong concern at state interference in the democratic process in Spain. The letter relates to the prevention of certain legitimate democratic parties from participating in the forthcoming elections in the Basque Country.
Flemish MEP Frieda Brepoels has written to all MEPs asking for their support. At issue is the decision of the Spanish Supreme Court to prevent the Bildu coalition from taking part in the Basque elections in spite of the fact that this coalition is formed from two unequivocally democratic parties.
The letter is addressed to the President of the European Commission, President of the European Council and the Prime Minister of Spain.
Frieda Brepoels said:
"Last Sunday the Spanish Supreme Court decided to ban the Bildu coalition from standing in forthcoming local and provincial elections in the Basque Country. Bildu includes democratic parties committed to a peaceful resolution of the Basque conflict which have previously condemned all violence.
"This decision is wrong in principle, undemocratic and contrary to the core values of the European Union. It also represents a blow to the Basque Peace Process."
|
