The central government in Madrid, pro-independence parties won an absolute majority in regional elections on December 21.

As the sole candidate from Catalonia’s separatist grouping, Puigdemont announced this week that he could govern the region from Brussels if he is re-elected president.

The parliamentary vote to choose a new Catalan leader is due to take place by the end of January.

But Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy reiterated Saturday that governing Catalonia from abroad would be “illegal”.

Echoing remarks he made Monday, Rajoy said Madrid would maintain its direct control over Catalonia and will take the matter to court if Puigdemont sought remote rule.

The Catalan parliament’s legal experts say any presidential contender has to be physically present, but Puigdemont insists he has the legitimate mandate of the people to rule.

He wants to present his candidacy and government programme to parliament — a prerequisite to being voted in — remotely via videolink or by having someone else read it for him.

His lawyer Jaume Alonso-Cuevillas said Saturday all scenarios were currently being considered.

“President Puigdemont never dismissed the possibility of presenting and submitting his candidacy in person,” the lawyer told Catalonian public television, adding that his client was “aware of the risks he faces”.

Alonso-Cuevillas has previously said that Puigdemont “could not be arrested” in Barcelona because of his immunity.

Source: ( AFP )

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