The BNG (Galician Nationalist Bloc) is gearing up for the upcoming elections on 29 November with a decalog of commitments designed to defend Galicia in Madrid, secure more rights, and enhance the quality of life for its residents. This was announced by national spokesperson Ana Pontón, who introduced the 'Galician Agenda' alongside the party's candidates for La Coruña, Pontevedra, Lugo, and Ourense.
During the presentation, Pontón emphasised the opportunity for Galicians to increase their political weight within the Spanish state, asserting that they must not allow the systemic discrimination perpetuated by the traditional two-party system. She stated, "In these elections, we have the chance to assert ourselves and demand respect, ensuring that Galicia is not treated as a sacrifice zone." The BNG aims to achieve greater representation to continue fighting for the region and the working class with renewed strength following the elections.
Pontón called for voters to concentrate their support on the BNG, asserting that a united front would create an unstoppable force to ensure that the voices of Galicians resonate in the corridors of power in Madrid. The core principles of the Galician Agenda include prioritising people's lives, advocating for an economy that serves the majority, and striving for a Galicia committed to democracy and peace.
"Everyone has the right to a dignified life, to earn a decent wage that allows them to make ends meet, and to have a home where they can build their life projects," Pontón stated. She also highlighted the BNG's commitment to defending quality public services in education, healthcare, and dependency care, asserting that a dignified life should be the norm, not a privilege.
In a climate where hate speech, xenophobia, and intolerance are on the rise, the BNG is also committed to advancing rights, equality, feminism, and social inclusion. "On 29 November, we will not take a step back in defending our rights and freedoms," she added.
Key commitments of the galician agenda
Among the commitments outlined in the Galician Agenda is the defence of an economy that benefits the majority. This involves putting an end to the privileges of energy companies and challenging the centralist policies that siphon off Galicia's resources for the benefit of Madrid. "Enough of pillaging and allowing a few to profit from what belongs to everyone," Pontón declared.
She argued that Galicia needs to strengthen its position within the state to make decisions about its own affairs, noting that decisions made in Madrid often disadvantage the region. Therefore, advancing self-government and increasing competencies is another key focus of the nationalist agenda.
The Galician Agenda also advocates for a commitment to democracy and peace, asserting that merely opposing war is insufficient. "If we say no to war, we must also halt the excessive military spending that fuels death and destruction, preventing resources from being allocated to housing, dependency care, or elderly support," Pontón explained.
She urged Galicians to consider the potential improvements to their lives that a stronger BNG in Congress could facilitate, recalling that in the previous legislature, a single BNG deputy and senator achieved more for Galicia than the combined efforts of the PP and PSOE.
Focus on economic and social issues
Néstor Rego, the BNG candidate for La Coruña, focused on the economic aspects of the agenda, stressing that a just ecological transition in Galicia requires an end to the exploitation of natural resources. He reiterated the BNG's commitment to creating a sustainable energy model that benefits Galicians, advocating for a Galician Electric Tariff.
Rego also highlighted the need for sustainable mobility, pledging to improve railway transport and modernise infrastructure to connect key cities effectively.
Carme da Silva, the candidate for Pontevedra, underscored the urgency of addressing housing issues, criticising both the state and the regional government for treating housing solely as a market commodity. She outlined BNG's proposals to cap rental prices, prevent speculative practices, and create a public rental housing stock.
Olalla Rodil, the candidate for Lugo, emphasised the importance of ensuring fair wages and pensions, advocating for an increase in the minimum wage and pensions to 60% of the average salary. She also called for the protection of public pension systems against threats from right-wing parties.
In summary, the BNG's Galician Agenda seeks to empower the region politically and economically, ensuring that the needs and rights of Galicians are prioritised in the national conversation.
