Aliança Catalana (AC) will not present a candidate for the Barcelona municipal elections after their chosen individual unexpectedly withdrew. Sílvia Orriols, the party's president, announced this setback during a press conference at the Catalan Parliament. She confirmed the party would not field a candidate next week, as initially planned for Sant Jordi's Day.
Ms Orriols revealed that the person entrusted to lead the party's list in the Catalan capital "backed out." She stated, "We do not want to rush," indicating a cautious approach to finding a new leader. The party president confirmed ongoing discussions with other individuals to head the Barcelona list. Meanwhile, Aliança Catalana has secured candidates for the municipal elections in Girona, Tarragona, and Lleida.
This development follows previous attempts by Aliança Catalana to secure a high-profile candidate. Earlier this year, Jaume Giró, former Economy Minister for the Generalitat, disclosed that Aliança Catalana had offered him the mayoral candidacy, an offer he subsequently declined. Jordi Amela, Aliança Catalana's president in Barcelonès, however, denied that such an offer had been made to Mr Giró. The party had also previously ruled out Santiago Espot. Mr Espot is a former commentator and 2011 mayoral candidate for Solidaritat Catalana. He now promotes another pro-independence list for the City Council.
Aliança Catalana's Electoral Ambitions
Tot Barcelona reported in late November last year that Aliança Catalana intended to contest the Barcelona municipal elections for the first time. The party currently holds two seats in the Catalan Parliament, occupied by Ms Orriols and Rosa Maria Soberana. Political analysts often view Aliança Catalana's performance in Barcelona as a "thermometer" for the 2028 Catalan elections. This provides an early indication of their broader electoral strength.
Barcelona City Council Threshold
To gain representation on the Barcelona City Council, a party must secure at least 5% of the votes. This contrasts with the 3% threshold required for entry into the Catalan Parliament. Recent polls suggest Aliança Catalana could surpass the 5% mark. For instance, a Gesop survey for El Periódico in September indicated the party could achieve 5.4% of the votes, potentially securing two councillors. Achieving 5% of the vote typically translates to between 37,000 and 38,000 ballots.
Future of Barcelona's Political Representation
The Barcelona City Council currently comprises 41 councillors. Should the city's population remain above 1.7 million residents by late 2026, the political representation on the Consell Plenari will increase. It will then comprise 43 councillors. Aliança Catalana's search for a new candidate continues, with the party aiming to establish a presence in Barcelona's local governance despite this initial setback.
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Originally published by Tot Barcelona. Read original article.
