Pedro Sánchez, the acting Socialist prime minister of Spain, secured a majority vote in the parliamentary session on November 16, 2023, to form a new government.
- Sánchez received the backing of 179 lawmakers out of 350 in the lower house of parliament, with opposition coming primarily from right-wing deputies.
- The vote followed almost two days of debate focusing on a controversial amnesty deal for Catalonia’s separatists, a key factor in securing support for Sánchez’s reelection.
- Sánchez was able to achieve the necessary majority by gaining the support of six smaller parties, enabling him to form another minority coalition government with the left-wing Sumar party.
- Spain’s national elections on July 23 resulted in a fragmented parliament, with the Popular Party receiving the most votes but failing to secure enough support to form a government.
- The Socialists, finishing second with 121 seats, now have the backing of 179 lawmakers through various agreements and pacts.
- The formation of the government will be a minority coalition, and it remains uncertain whether Sánchez can maintain the support of the smaller parties over the next four years.
Q.: Who was chosen by a majority of legislators to form a new government in Spain on November 16, 2023?
a) Emmanuel Macron
b) Pedro Sánchez
c) Edouard Philippe
d) Marine Le Pen
Ans: b) Pedro Sánchez
