ERC leader Rufián eyes Catalonia presidency and backs Junqueras after amnesty

At a midday event at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Gabriel Rufián announced his desire to succeed Oriol Junqueras as president of the Generalitat, noting that Junqueras can now seek office after the amnesty removed his disqualification. He presented his book, "Cómo ganar a los fachas," with journalist Àngels Barceló and reiterated support for Elisenda Alamany as Barcelona's future mayor. Rufián accused Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of calling the national election at a convenient moment and warned that recent disturbances in Barcelona may be a state-orchestrated operation benefiting the far right.

He stressed the need for a united left front, proposing collaboration among Esquerra Republicana, Comuns and the CUP ahead of the 2028 Catalan elections. While rejecting any aim to lead the Spanish left, he emphasized building sovereignist-driven alliances and called for a thorough investigation of the unrest.