On April 25, 2023, the Catalan National Assembly (ANC) appointed Josep Vila as its new president, succeeding the renowned singer-songwriter Llu\u00eds Llach, who opted not to seek re-election. Vila, who garnered 39 out of 58 votes during the first-round election, successfully met the necessary two-thirds majority requirements to assume this pivotal role.<\/p>\n
Llu\u00eds Llach, who previously led the ANC, recently decided against running for re-election due to health concerns. However, he will not be stepping away from the organization entirely; he will continue to serve as vice president. The recent vote, which took place at the Pell Museum in Igualada, Barcelona, also featured Ariadna Heinz as the newly elected secretary and Blanca Curri\u00e0 as treasurer.<\/p>\n
Born in 1959, Josep Vila is not only an activist and pedagogue but also has a robust background in education. Having served as a teacher and director of territorial youth services for the Generalitat in Girona, Vila has been involved with the ANC since its inception. He previously held the role of coordinator in Girona and has a deep commitment to the independence cause.<\/p>\n
In the recent elections for the national secretariat, Vila ranked as the eighth most voted candidate, amidst prominent figures such as Llach, Joan Matamala, and Heinz.<\/p>\n
As he embarks on his term from 2026 to 2028, Vila aims to complete the internal renewal process that has been underway for the past two years. He stresses the importance of strengthening the ANC as a mobilization force for Catalonian independence. “Building a social majority in favor of independence is central to our mission,” he declared in post-election comments.<\/p>\n
Vila\u2019s vision for the ANC includes making the organization “more agile and simpler,” acknowledging the evolving political and social landscape since 2012. He emphasizes the necessity of continuing Llach’s work to rejuvenate engagement within the territorial assemblies, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership and vision.<\/p>\n
The ANC under Vila intends to uphold the defense of the Catalan language as well as actively address various issues faced by the region, including fiscal, cultural, social, and national challenges. This commitment will remain central to the ANC’s mission as it navigates this new leadership chapter.<\/p>\n
The election of Josep Vila as the president of the ANC marks a significant transition in the movement for Catalan independence. With a clear vision and experienced leadership, the ANC is poised to continue its vital role in advocating for the social and political rights of Catalonia on a national and international scale. The climate of “broad consensus” during this election reflects a unified commitment to the cause, ensuring that the spirit of mobilization continues to thrive within the organization.<\/p>\n