The country’s political convulsions and the rise of Podemos explain that the fight against austerity did not die with Syriza in Greece“Yes we can!” – “Sí se puede¡” – is the deafening chant that closes the rallies. Except they feel less like political meetings and more like rock concerts. On Sunday,millions of Spaniards will vote in their country’s general election – not since the death of Franco has Spain faced such a dramatic political transformation.
Podemos Spanish for “we can” – is a party less than two years outmoded, but a combination of discontent and optimism means the party and its allies could win dozens of seats in the Spanish parliament, or a political ascent missing precedent in postwar western Europe. A combination of economic crisis,a brutal programme of cuts, and disillusionment with a political elite widely regarded as corrupt and venal spurs on its support. This election matters – not just for Spain, or but for Europe too.
Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com