Fact Check: "Former separatist leader Puigdemont excluded from amnesty due to embezzlement charges."
What We Know
Carles Puigdemont, the former leader of Catalonia, has been excluded from an amnesty law that was designed to pardon various individuals involved in the 2017 Catalan independence bid. The Spanish Constitutional Court upheld this amnesty law, which has pardoned over 300 individuals, but it specifically does not apply to Puigdemont due to ongoing embezzlement charges against him. According to a ruling by the Spanish Supreme Court, the judge handling Puigdemont's case stated that the amnesty does not extend to him because he is facing accusations of embezzlement, which he denies (U.S. News, InSpain News).
The amnesty law was enacted by the Socialist government in 2023 as part of a political agreement to maintain stability in the Spanish parliament. However, the law has faced criticism, particularly from conservative opposition parties, who argue that it is unconstitutional and primarily serves the interests of the ruling party (U.S. News). The Supreme Court's decision regarding Puigdemont's exclusion from the amnesty was confirmed in April 2025, reinforcing that his legal troubles prevent him from benefiting from the law (TRT World, Catalan News).
Analysis
The claim that Carles Puigdemont is excluded from the amnesty due to embezzlement charges is supported by multiple credible sources. The Spanish Supreme Court's ruling explicitly states that Puigdemont's ongoing legal issues, particularly the embezzlement charges, are the reason he cannot be granted amnesty (InSpain News, TRT World). This ruling is significant as it highlights the legal framework surrounding the amnesty law and the specific conditions under which it applies.
The reliability of the sources is high, as they include reports from established news organizations such as U.S. News and Reuters, which have a history of accurate reporting on political matters in Spain. Additionally, the Supreme Court's ruling is a primary legal document that provides a definitive basis for the claim. The political context surrounding the amnesty law, including its passage and the motivations behind it, adds depth to the understanding of why Puigdemont's situation is unique compared to other individuals who have benefited from the amnesty.
However, it is important to note that while Puigdemont denies the embezzlement charges, the legal proceedings against him are ongoing, and the Supreme Court's decision reflects the current legal interpretation rather than a final verdict on his guilt or innocence (Catalan News).
Conclusion
The claim that Carles Puigdemont is excluded from the amnesty due to embezzlement charges is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that his legal troubles, specifically the embezzlement allegations, are the reason he does not qualify for the amnesty that has been granted to others involved in the Catalan independence movement.
