Jaume Alonso-Cuevillas, a prominent lawyer and Carles Puigdemont’s legal representative, has publicly expressed his willingness to stand as Junts’ mayoral candidate in Barcelona. This is for the 2027 municipal elections, following a direct conversation with the party leader, Carles Puigdemont.

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Mr Alonso-Cuevillas confirmed he met with Mr Puigdemont in Waterloo, Belgium, in October. During this meeting, the former President of the Generalitat sounded him out about leading Junts’ list for the Barcelona mayoralty. Mr Alonso-Cuevillas stated, “I am at the party’s disposal and, if they back me, I will do it with great enthusiasm.”

The lawyer further emphasised his strong desire for the role. He told betevé’s ‘Bon dia, Barcelona’ programme, “I would love to be a candidate for mayor of Barcelona.” He also highlighted his high public recognition, which he believes makes him a strong contender for the party’s leadership. Notably, Mr Alonso-Cuevillas is the only potential Junts candidate to have openly discussed his aspirations with the media.

Junts’ Candidate Selection Process

Meanwhile, Jordi Turull, the Secretary General of Junts, addressed the ongoing candidate discussions. Speaking at a conference organised by Nova Economia Fòrum, Mr Turull acknowledged the party’s fortunate position. He stated, “Junts is fortunate that we have many people willing to take the step.”

Mr Turull also outlined the party’s timeline for selecting a candidate. He confirmed Junts aims to choose its mayoral candidate before this summer. This decision point will occur less than a year before the 2027 municipal elections. He clarified the process, stating, “The candidate will be decided by Junts members, but President Puigdemont and I will make a proposal.”

Internal Party Dynamics

Another key figure in the internal party debate is Jordi Martí Galbis. He currently serves as the president of the Junts municipal group in Barcelona City Council. Mr Martí Galbis has consistently expressed his own ambition to be the next Junts candidate for mayor. He previously served as the number two to Xavier Trias in the last municipal elections.

Mr Martí Galbis remains steadfast in his position. He has not altered his stance since Mr Alonso-Cuevillas’s name emerged as a potential contender. He declared, “I will have no problem going to primaries with anyone who puts themselves forward.” This statement signals his readiness for an internal contest within the party.

Barcelona’s Political Landscape

The previous municipal elections in Barcelona saw Junts secure a victory in terms of votes. However, the Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC) candidate, Jaume Collboni, ultimately became mayor. This outcome, decided in the final moments, significantly shaped the current political dynamics in the city.

For residents of Barcelona, the selection of Junts’ mayoral candidate is a crucial development. It will influence the political direction of the city in the upcoming 2027 elections. The party’s decision will determine its strategy to challenge the incumbent administration and potentially regain the mayoralty.

As the summer approaches, internal discussions within Junts will intensify. The party leadership, including Carles Puigdemont and Jordi Turull, will present their proposal. Ultimately, Junts members will make the final decision on who represents them in the race for Barcelona’s mayor.

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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.