Catalonia's new 'Esquerra Democràtica' initiative faces criticism

Carles Campuzano and Francesc‑Marc Álvaro have launched a political association called Esquerra Democràtica, presenting it as a flexible platform to rethink Catalan independentism and build broader majorities. Analysts describe the group as a think‑tank closely linked to ERC, aimed at reshaping internal party dynamics and managing factions such as Gabriel Rufián’s circle.

Critics argue the initiative recycles old political tactics, lacks new leadership, and serves more as a vehicle for intra‑party maneuvering than genuine democratic renewal. The formation is also discussed in the context of a growing voter base that moves between parties, raising questions about the future of traditional independentist strategies in Catalonia.