Accusations Against Morocco Intensify
The Popular Party (PP) has once again emphasized its accusations against Morocco, holding the nation accountable for the mass influx of immigrants into Ceuta on July 30 and 31. The party asserts that Morocco is responsible either by action or omission in this crisis, reiterating its commitment to fiercely defending Spain's territorial integrity. In a recent statement, the PP responded to comments made by Morocco's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which warned against being used as a "scapegoat" in Spain's political disputes and insisted there was no evidence linking it to the migration crisis in Ceuta.
Despite the ongoing accusations, the PP expressed its desire to maintain a loyal and stable relationship with Morocco, underscoring the belief that both countries are destined to foster this relationship for the benefit of their citizens. The party called for this relationship to be founded on mutual respect, institutional loyalty, transparency, reciprocity, and full respect for the sovereignty of both states. Furthermore, the PP insisted that the events of late July constituted a serious violation of Spain's territorial integrity, which also impacts Europe, emphasizing that safeguarding national borders remains a non-negotiable priority. They stated, "We will always exercise this defense firmly, within the framework of the rule of law, regardless of any circumstance. Nothing is above the defense of Spain."
The PP also criticized the government led by Pedro Sánchez, asserting that it must respond to the reasons preventing a resolution to this crisis if it possesses the means to do so. They questioned why the government has not repatriated those who entered irregularly, especially minors, as Morocco has requested. The PP reiterated that Ceuta and Melilla are integral parts of Spain.
Leadership Calls for Unity in Criticism of Morocco
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the PP, has urged regional leaders to adhere to the party's unified stance regarding criticisms of Morocco and the government, stressing that much is at stake. In a message directed at territorial 'popular' leaders, Feijóo described the declassification of documents related to the warnings preceding the "invasion of Ceuta" as a "controlled demolition" by a government that is unable to halt the flow of information from national police, intelligence agencies, and military services. He portrayed the executive as being "completely fragmented and engaged in an open internal war." Feijóo has warned that the government will face consequences, asserting that there will be both political and judicial responsibilities.
In the meantime, Moncloa has remained silent and has not responded to the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs' statement, a situation that PP Secretary General Miguel Tellado criticized. He pointed out that it is again Feijóo who is defending Ceuta and Melilla, emphasizing that nothing is more important than the defense of Spain.
Meanwhile, Santiago Abascal, the president of Vox, has also pointed fingers at both the Moroccan and Spanish governments regarding the mass entry of immigrants into Ceuta, stating that there is already ample information implicating Morocco and the Spanish government in this crisis. In media statements, Abascal stressed that Morocco is "willing" to accept minors back to their families, demanding that the Spanish government urgently address this issue. He expressed concern that there appears to be an institutionalized abduction of minors and a persistent mass immigration issue orchestrated by the current government, questioning the motives behind such actions.
In an interview, Sira Rego highlighted Morocco's responsibility for the ongoing inability to return unaccompanied minors. According to her, the prosecutor's office has opened 600 cases prior to the mass entry, to which Rabat has not responded. Rego criticized the Moroccan government for its lack of action and response regarding the return of these children, emphasizing the importance of their cooperation in the repatriation process.
Rego recounted a particular incident involving a child who wished to return to his family before July 30, but was unable to do so due to Morocco's inaction. She stressed that the procedures for the affiliation and return of minors involve legal safeguards and that it is imperative for the country of origin to respond. Regarding Morocco's response, Rego reiterated that "80,000 individuals do not move without Morocco being aware of the situation," advocating for a thorough investigation into these events. She argued that what transpired in Ceuta is a clear indication of the failures of a migration model that externalizes border control and places it in the hands of a third country.
Ernest Urtasun, the Minister of Culture and spokesperson for Sumar, reminded that his party has consistently maintained that Morocco bears responsibility, either by action or omission. He underscored that declassified reports validate this stance, promising that the full extent of Morocco's responsibility will eventually be revealed. He declared, "We will not hesitate to demand transparency and accountability from Morocco." Meanwhile, Izquierda Unida condemned the Moroccan government's statement as hypocritical, criticizing it for speaking out after days of silence, particularly following the approval of a law restoring Spanish nationality to a significant segment of the Sahrawi population facing persecution and occupation of their territory. They urged the Moroccan regime to cease its deceitful and veiled threats and instead commit to properly controlling its borders and improving the living conditions of its citizens to prevent them from seeking a dignified life in Spain.
As reported by rtve.es.
