Spain’s conservatives win Andalusia election but needfFar-right support

08:00

Spain’s conservative Juanma Moreno and his People’s Party (PP) secured victory in the regional election in Andalusia, but the party lost its absolute majority and will likely need the support of the far-right Vox party to continue governing the region.

The election in Andalusia, Spain’s most populated autonomous region, is widely viewed as an important political indicator ahead of the next national elections expected next year. The outcome could influence the broader balance of power between conservatives and the left-wing government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

According to the official results, the People’s Party won 53 seats in the 109-seat regional parliament, fewer than the 58 seats it obtained in the previous election and short of the 55 seats required for an absolute majority.

The far-right Vox party increased its representation slightly, winning 15 seats. Political analysts believe the PP may now need a coalition or parliamentary agreement with Vox to remain in control of the regional government.

Meanwhile, Spain’s Socialist Party suffered a significant setback, securing only 28 seats, its weakest result ever in Andalusia, a region that was traditionally considered one of the party’s strongest political territories.

Other left-wing parties also maintained a presence in the regional parliament. The regionalist alliance Adelante Andalucía improved its performance, while the coalition Por Andalucía retained its previous representation.

During the campaign, several issues dominated political debate, including unemployment, public healthcare challenges, and concerns related to drug trafficking and regional security.

The election result highlights the growing influence of conservative and nationalist political forces in parts of Spain. Observers say the possibility of cooperation between the PP and Vox in Andalusia may foreshadow similar political alliances at the national level in the future.

Political negotiations are expected to begin soon as parties discuss possible agreements to form a stable regional government.