Pedro Sánchez invokes Maricarmen Abascal in election campaign

The case of Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman who passed away following her eviction from her long-term residence in Madrid's Retiro district, has become a central political issue in Spain. The Sindicato de Inquilinas de Madrid has denounced the removal of a memorial altar set up by neighbors near her former home, stating they will not allow her memory to be destroyed.

During a pre-campaign rally in Fuenlabrada, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez invoked Maricarmen's memory, promising to win the upcoming November 29 general elections “in her honor.” He framed the housing cause as a primary campaign pillar, pledging to address the struggles of vulnerable citizens.

However, the use of her case for political purposes has faced criticism. Some commentators have accused the socialist leadership of using her as an electoral slogan while alleging inconsistencies regarding the housing practices of certain party-affiliated figures and their associates.