The recent passing of Maria del Carmen Abascal has ignited a passionate response across Spain, reflecting not only a deep-seated love for her legacy but also the frustrations surrounding the country’s housing crisis. This situation has amplified calls for urgent reforms and has reverberated through the political landscape, leading to a snap election. As thousands gathered in protest, a narrative emerged that highlights both the social solidarity and the pressing need for systemic change in Spain’s housing policies.
Thousands of Spaniards protested outside their parliament following the death of Maria del Carmen Abascal, the 87-year-old woman whose eviction sparked widespread outcry and led to a call for a snap general election in the country. Abascal passed away on Wednesday after being hospitalized due to severe anxiety and exhaustion, conditions that developed after her eviction from her Madrid residence on September 23. Although she reached an agreement to return home while in the hospital, she tragically died before she could do so. As of now, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
On the streets, demonstrators expressed their anger and sorrow over Abascal’s eviction. A protester, Diana, poignantly stated that the eviction of an elderly woman from her long-time home felt akin to murder. The gathering drew thousands, who mourned Abascal outside her former residence by laying flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes, capturing the collective grief of the community. Protesters were heard chanting, “They’re not deaths; they’re murders,” as they marched from their camp at the iconic Puerta del Sol square to Abascal’s building.
The protests have coincided with significant political developments, as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a snap general election set for November 29, responding to the escalating tensions over home shortages and skyrocketing rents. In parliament, discussions around tributes to Abascal quickly turned contentious, with lawmakers accusing one another of exploiting her situation for political advantage.
Alberto Nunez Feijoo, the leader of the conservative People’s Party (PP), criticized the government, asserting that the Socialists were manipulating public sentiment surrounding the housing crisis. The PP, which maintains a significant presence in regional assemblies, declined to observe a moment of silence in Abascal’s honor, a decision that has further fueled the ongoing tensions between political factions. In response, leftist lawmakers organized their own tribute, giving Abascal a standing ovation that was not reciprocated by their conservative counterparts.
Also highlighted in this tumultuous environment is public sentiment regarding the housing crisis. A recent survey indicated that 76.3 percent of Spaniards support government intervention to ensure access to housing. Meanwhile, 79 percent believe the right to housing should take priority over treating homes purely as economic commodities. Ombudsman Angel Gabilondo emphasized the need for coordinated action at all levels of government to address the housing crisis and mentioned plans to prepare a housing report. He called for initiatives to expand access to public housing, regulate tourist rentals, increase rent assistance, and enhance protections against evictions for vulnerable families.
As the situation evolves, Abascal’s legacy continues to resonate, demanding attention to the struggles of those affected by Spain’s housing crisis.
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