Podemos proposes open primaries for Spanish left-wing unity

Podemos has officially proposed holding open primaries to select a single candidate for the entire left-wing opposition ahead of the next general elections. Irene Montero, a leading figure in Podemos, is advocating for this method to “break the loop” of political fragmentation and ensure the candidacy represents a broader movement rather than just party negotiations.

Montero has expressed openness to working with Gabriel Rufián, the spokesperson for ERC, suggesting his participation in the primaries would be “perfect.” However, ERC has previously indicated it would not form a coalition with non-independentist parties.

Sumar, the alliance comprising IU, Movimiento Sumar, Más Madrid, and Los Comuns, has responded cautiously. Rosa Martínez, co-coordinator of Movimiento Sumar, stated that while they value the push for a unitary candidacy, the specific “formula” of open primaries is not currently a priority for their group. Sumar continues to follow its own roadmap for defining its brand and candidate, emphasizing the need for pacts and dialogue.