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Spain’s far-right Vox party returned to the regional government of Extremadura on Wednesday after reaching a deal with the conservative Popular Party (PP), renewing their alliance ahead of a general election expected in 2027.
Regions wield significant powers in key areas such as health and education in Spain’s decentralised political system, making the western region’s government a potential bellwether for the national vote.
Vox withdrew from five regional governments in 2024 where it had been in coalition with the PP, including Extremadura, citing a dispute over the distribution of unaccompanied migrant minors.
The PP’s Maria Guardiola was re-elected as head of the Extremadura government on Wednesday with Vox’s support, securing 40 votes in favour and 25 against in the regional parliament.
She was sworn in shortly afterwards and embraced by Vox’s regional leader, Óscar Fernández, who will serve as her deputy in the new coalition government.
The agreement between the two parties includes several measures aimed at tightening immigration rules.
It states that “aid, subsidies and public benefits” should be prioritised for people with what it calls a “real, lasting and verifiable link to the territory.”
During a debate in Spain’s national parliament on Wednesday, Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the PP-Vox agreement in Extremadura “a kick to the constitution.”
He said the deal introduces discriminatory principles in the delivery of public services and benefits, undermining equal treatment for citizens.
The PP and Vox are also negotiating coalition governments in Aragon and Castile and Leon, both of which, like Extremadura, recently held regional elections.
The outcome of this renewed attempt at governing together will likely be closely watched by voters ahead of the next national election, which Sanchez must call by mid-2027.
Most polls suggest the PP would win but would need Vox’s support to form a governing majority in Spain’s increasingly fragmented parliament.
Additional sources • AFP