Catalan Interior Minister Says Independence Approved

by Stephen Lendman (stephenlendman.org - Home - Stephen Lendman)

Spanish PM Mariano Rajoy gave Catalan President Carles Puigdemont until October 16 at 10:00AM local time to clarify his position on independence - a simple yea or nay.

Instead, Puigdemont asked for dialogue with Madrid, refusing to comply with Rajoy's demand. His deadline was extended another 72 hours until October 19 at 10:00AM local time.

Failure to reject independence will likely trigger Article 155 of Spain's constitution, suspending the region's autonomy, its separatist officials possibly arrested, Madrid installing puppet governance to serve its interests.

Catalan Interior Minister Joaquim Forn commented on what's ongoing, explaining parliament approved independence. It's temporarily on hold, stressing the region never got this far before in separating from Spain.

"(E)verything will unfold very soon," he said. "There was a clear 'yes' in the referendum, but it is equally important to give dialogue one more chance after having listened to the appeals we have received at home and abroad." 

"We will see whether there is any chance of reaching an agreement."

Rajoy rejecting dialogue is no surprise. Repressive regimes operate this way. Puigdemont suggested Catalonia and Madrid appoint two representatives who'd agree on a mediator, a "very clear, unconditional offer," said Forn.

"We must stick to our offer and let Madrid choose between dialogue or crackdown" - the latter looking most likely.

Rajoy wants more than quashing Catalan independence. He's trying to usurp regional security powers, controlling its activities from Madrid, Forn explained.

He hasn't yet taken over Catalan Mossos d'Esquadra police. His prosecutor's office appointed a coordinator for regional law enforcement agencies - Perez de los Cobos, close to Madrid's Interior Ministry.

Forn was blunt, saying "I've said it before and I'll say it again. He's a fascist, someone who sided with those who staged the far-right coup d'etat led by Tejero in 1981."

"Everyone should realize what sort of people are leading the Spanish police," the same elements governing Spain, led by Rajoy.

Cobos ordered referendum day state-sponsored violence, Forn explained. He'll "be held accountable for" his lawless actions.

He expects tough going ahead, stressing it must be handled professionally. He wants no clashes between state and regional security forces.

How things play out remain unknown. It depends on actions Madrid takes.

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