The PNV insists that it will “not respond to pressures” from the PP, with which it finds it “difficult” to establish connections.

Maitane Ipiñazar, the EBB secretary of the PNV (Basque Nationalist Party), has recently voiced the party’s stance regarding the troubling relationship with the PP (People’s Party). Ipiñazar insists that the Jeltzale formation will not yield to the pressures exerted by the PP, leading to an ongoing strain in communication and cooperation. In her assessment, the interactions with the PP make it “difficult” to maintain the “built bridges.” The inconsistency in their approach—simultaneously wanting dialogue while throwing baseless accusations—makes collaboration increasingly challenging.

In a revealing interview with Radio Euskadi, Ipiñazar discussed the recent call by Miguel Tellado, the PP parliamentary spokesman, urging PNV’s Maribel Vaquero to restart interactions between the two parties. This call is juxtaposed with allegations made by Javier de Andrés, the president of the Basque PP, regarding the supposed corruption plot linked to the ‘Cerdán Case’. The nature of these allegations, according to Ipiñazar, undermines any genuine attempt at dialogue.

Ipiñazar questioned the authenticity of such calls for dialogue when leaders from the PP simultaneously issue serious accusations against the PNV without substantiated evidence. She remarked, “It is not logical to call for a dialogue while at the same time boycotting us at all times.” The mixed signals leave the PNV in a precarious position, making it harder to engage in constructive conversations.

The EBB secretary pointed out that the recent behavior of the PP seems aimed at putting the PNV “in the focus” as a strategy to exert pressure. “I do not know if it is to intimidate the PNV, but they will not achieve it,” she stated. She emphasized that the PNV would make decisions based on facts and the will of the Basque citizens, particularly in light of the upcoming appearance of President Pedro Sánchez in Congress.

“We are not going to respond to pressures of any kind,” she asserted, reinforcing her party’s commitment to maintain integrity and ethical standards in their political dealings. The decisions they make will depend largely on the information presented to them, especially regarding the July 9 appearance by Sánchez. “We will see what happens and decide based on that,” she added firmly.

Addressing separate allegations linking the PNV to Antxon Alonso, the owner of Servinabar, Ipiñazar denied any connection. She pointed out that the claims made by former Secretary of Organization Santos Cerdán were “arguments without any foundation.” Ipiñazar insisted that the PNV does not have any relationship with Alonso that could potentially influence their dealings with the Socialist Party. The ongoing tensions and narratives spread by opposition parties complicate the political atmosphere.

Furthermore, she weighed in on the intricate relationships involving EH Bildu regarding Antxon Alonso and Santos Cerdán, suggesting it’s up to them to clarify their connections. Ipiñazar expressed a sense of normalcy in the investigation initiated by the Parliament of Navarra, particularly considering the personal history between María Chivite, the President of Navarra, and Santos Cerdán.

The conversation inevitably shifted toward changes within the PSOE (Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party) following Cerdán’s involvement in a controversy regarding irregularities in public works bids. Ipiñazar remarked on the appointment of Rebeca Torró as the new Secretary of Organization, replacing Cerdán. She noted that such changes are natural when looking at the recent history of the party’s internal structure.

“It seemed logical to make these movements,” Ipiñazar stated when referring to the changes post-scandal. However, she expressed that more transparency is needed regarding these internal shifts and decisions made by Sánchez, particularly those that pertain to their coalition with the PNV.

As the discussion moved toward the pending transfer of competencies to Euskadi, including crucial aspects of the Social Security framework, Ipiñazar emphasized the significance of this endeavor. The upcoming bilateral commission meeting, which Lehendakari Imanol Pradales will attend, carries aspirations for fruitful discussions. “It is reflected in an organic law that has not been complied with for more than 40 years. It is already time,” she declared, expressing hopes that the technical team from the Basque Government can facilitate this long-overdue process.

In summary, the ongoing confrontation between the PNV and the PP underscores the complexities of Basque politics. With both parties entangled in a web of assertions and counterclaims, the road ahead may be fraught with challenges. However, the PNV’s commitment to uphold their standards and make informed decisions based on factual information remains resolute, reflecting the critical balance they strive to maintain in an unpredictable political landscape.