The Government is working to end the crisis in Sumar, ensuring that it does not affect the coalition as a whole. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría said that “this does not affect coalition relations”emphasizing that Sumar had acted forcefully to resolve the internal conflict. From Moncloa, the intention is to close this episode as quickly as possible and project an image of unity.
However, in Sumar, the panorama is more complex. The crisis has left the party in a state of uncertainty and the secretary general of Congress, Txema Guijarro, said that the main challenge now is “how to guarantee that the space moves forward.” Guijarro also recognized the need to rethink responsibilities and work in a “new stage” which responds to internal requests for change.
Criticism of Sumar’s leadership is not new. Antonio Maíllo, federal coordinator of Izquierda Unida, questioned the “hyperleadership and top-down decisions” within the party, while Águeda Micó, deputy for Sumar and secretary general of Més Compromís, calls for a more horizontal decision-making structure in which everyone feels comfortable.
One of the key points remains the election of a new spokesperson. The name of Aina Vidal appeared as a possible option, even if there is no consensus around her silhouette, and certain sectors, like the people, doubt that she is the best alternative in the midst of the crisis. When consulted, Vidal responded that this decision should be “a choral and festive reflection”emphasizing that much remains to be decided.
