Puigdemont Returns to Belgium Safely

Carles Puigdemont, the former Catalan leader and prominent figure in the region's independence movement, has returned to Belgium after a brief public appearance in Barcelona. Accusing the Spanish government of obstructing his "right to speak and vote," Puigdemont delivered a speech from the Arc de Triomf before evading a police dragnet aimed at arresting him. He expressed his desire to participate in the Catalan parliament's vote for the new president, Salvador Illa, but claimed that police operations were set up to prevent his entry. Puigdemont, who has been living in exile since 2017 following his removal from office for declaring independence, stated that attempting to access the parliament would have meant surrendering to authorities, which he refused to do. His return coincided with Illa's investiture, during which the new president pledged to govern inclusively and avoid divisive politics. The Catalan government is now moving forward with the formation of a new administration, with key appointments expected next week. The circumstances surrounding Puigdemont's escape have sparked controversy among various security and judicial agencies, each blaming the other for his evasion. The regional police, Mossos d'Esquadra, confirmed the arrest of two officers suspected of aiding his escape, with one allegedly providing the vehicle used. The situation has led to calls for accountability, with police unions condemning the incident as a significant failure in duty. As Puigdemont reassures supporters of the ongoing nationalist movement, he emphasizes that holding a referendum remains a legitimate pursuit, asserting that "we do not have the right to resign."