Mounting pressure on Catalan government
President of the Generalitat Salvador Illa is facing a deepening political crisis, with senior resignations, ongoing commuter rail disruptions, and persistent public safety challenges undermining his administration’s stability. The situation comes as Illa prepares to address the public on Monday, marking the halfway point of his term. Since taking office, Illa’s government was expected to consolidate power amid weakened pro-independence parties. However, recent polls show declining support for the Socialist Party (PSC), compounded by internal turmoil. In recent weeks, one minister, three general secretaries, and the head of the regional police force have left their posts.
Trapero’s departure a symbolic blow
The resignation of Major Josep Lluís Trapero, Director General of the Mossos d’Esquadra, is particularly significant. Once hailed as a key political recruit to professionalise public security, Trapero’s exit follows criticism over rising violent crime despite broader crime reductions. According to data presented in June 2026, criminal offences in Catalonia fell by 7.6% in the first half of the year, with property crimes down nearly 13% compared to the 2022–2025 average. The drop was attributed to increased police presence, judicial speed, and the new Law against Recidivism, as noted by Interior Minister Núria Parlon and Trapero during a National Security and Justice Committee meeting. However, concerns remain over the increasing use of firearms in violent crimes. Trapero acknowledged a rise in gun-related incidents, with six firearm homicides and 27 injuries recorded in the first six months of 2026.
Rodalies crisis undermines early gains
The government’s early achievements, including the passage of the 2026 budget and a new funding agreement, have been overshadowed by the ongoing crisis in Rodalies commuter rail services. Despite the creation of Rodalies de Catalunya SME, SA, a jointly owned operator established in January 2026 with 51.1% held by Renfe and 49.9% by the Generalitat, service reliability remains poor. A new Rodalies Plan 2026–2030, backed by over €8,000 million, was introduced to modernise the network, improve maintenance, and increase capacity. The plan represents a 26% increase in investment compared to previous levels, with a focus on preventive and corrective maintenance. Still, passengers continue to face delays and cancellations, eroding public confidence.
Political isolation and shifting opposition
Illa’s political position is further strained by the rise of Aliança Catalana, which now threatens to become the first or second-largest party in the Catalan Parliament. With Junts absent from formal opposition roles, Sílvia Orriols of the far-right party has effectively become the leading opposition figure. The government had initially positioned itself as a bulwark against far-right influence, but growing dissatisfaction over transport, health, and education, including ongoing tensions with teachers and doctors, has weakened that narrative. Without a clear majority in Madrid, the PSC could lose crucial support from the national government, forcing a shift toward defensive governance.
The president has a problem, and he must take it by the horns.
Illa is expected to outline corrective measures in his upcoming address, aiming to reaffirm his leadership and rally a unified Catalan response ahead of potential national realignments.
Primary sources: lamoncloa.gob.es, govern.cat. Reported by elpais.com, eldiario.es, en.ara.cat, elmundo.es, mundiario.com, publico.es, bbc.com, rtve.es, ara.cat.
