BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In the midst of political post-election haggling, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s vacation trip to Morocco has ignited a firestorm of criticism from both the left and the right. As the Podemos party, a coalition partner in the government, denounces what they see as complacency with Rabat, the popular party calls the trip a “manifest provocation” and demands explanations on recent policy shifts.
The Podemos party, known for its staunch stance on human rights, is voicing concern over Sanchez’s vacation choice. MEP Idoia Villanueva accused the Prime Minister of displaying continued complacency with Morocco, while the North African nation violates the fundamental rights of the Saharawi people with impunity. Podemos further reaffirms its unwavering support for the Sahrawi people and the Polisario Front in their struggle for self-determination. This is not the first time Podemos has expressed disagreement with Sanchez’s handling of the Western Sahara issue, labeling his previous position change as “unilateral and illegal.”
On the other side of the political spectrum, the popular party, which emerged victorious in the last elections, is condemning Sanchez’s decision to vacation in Morocco. A high-ranking PP official describes the trip as a provocative move, driven by the Prime Minister’s arrogance. Amidst the controversy, the PP is also pressing Sanchez for answers regarding the data leak from his mobile phone with the Pegasus spyware.
Furthermore, the PP is calling on Sanchez to address the damaged relations with Algeria resulting from the change in position on Western Sahara. The move has raised concerns about Spain’s diplomatic ties with third countries in the region.
As criticism from both sides of the political spectrum intensifies, Sanchez finds himself at the center of another political storm. His choice of vacation destination has further polarized an already divided political landscape in Spain. With Podemos accusing him of complacency and the PP questioning his policy decisions and personal involvement, Sanchez faces mounting pressure to address the controversies surrounding his trip.
