Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, is under increasing pressure as housing protests in Madrid have intensified and his leftist allies are calling for stronger actions. This tension is damaging to his coalition on the eve of a key election year.
Eviction of an elderly tenant
María Carmen Abascal, an 87-year-old wheelchair-bound tenant, was forcibly evicted from her home after living there since 1956 because she could not meet the new rental conditions set by an investment company. Thousands marched in Madrid on Saturday, with some protesters setting up tents in the historic Puerta del Sol square. By Monday, hundreds of tents had been erected.
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Political and social reactions
Valeria Raco, spokesperson for the Madrid Tenants' Union, said: "We live in a country full of María Carmens and we say enough is enough." During her speech to the protesters, chants against investors and the government were heard. Sánchez, who called the eviction "a social tragedy" last week, is now trying to control the situation by passing a delayed housing bill. However, passing a law that can get through Parliament seems difficult.
The current proposal includes extending support for vulnerable tenants until 2028, limiting rent increases to 2 percent in some cases, and providing tax exemptions for tenants in high-rent areas. However, these proposals do not meet the demands of Sánchez's smaller coalition partners, the Sumar party, who are calling for stronger actions. Yolanda Díaz, the Deputy Prime Minister, urged people on Monday to take action against their own government.
Díaz said: "In this country, rights do not simply fall from the sky." Protesters in the square also called for automatic renewal of rental contracts, strict measures against abusive landlords, and a halt to rent increases until the housing crisis is resolved. Jorge Clado, a 26-year-old student, said he was forced to return to his family's home because his former landlord dramatically raised the rent.
As national elections approach, Clado warned that if the government does not take immediate action, it will make a big mistake. He added: "When election day comes, I think many people will stay home."
Political consequences
Pablo Simón, a political sociologist, described these protests as devastating for Sánchez and his coalition. He said: "These demonstrations reflect the widespread frustration of leftist voters who feel this government has not delivered on its progressive promises." Marta García, a 60-year-old retiree, said she traveled to Madrid to support the protesters and sees this camp as a sign of anger and hope for change.
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