In a ceremony charged with symbolism and sharp criticism, the Spanish Senate awarded gold medals to the presidents of Ceuta and Melilla. The event, strongly backed by the conservative People's Party (PP), turned into a platform to denounce the central government's migration policies, highlighting a deep political divide between the right wing and the ruling PSOE party.

A Recognition Amidst Ideological Conflict

The Spanish Senate recently experienced a day of high political tension during the presentation of the Gold Medal to the presidents of the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, Juan Jesús Vivas and Juan José Imbroda respectively.

Context for International Readers: Ceuta and Melilla are two Spanish autonomous cities located on the north coast of Africa. They serve as critical land borders between the European Union and Morocco, making them focal points for migration and sovereignty discussions.

Key Political Detail

While Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Partido Popular (PP)—the main conservative opposition—was present to support the award, the PSOE (the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party, currently in power) marked a total absence, failing to send any representative to the event.

The atmosphere of confrontation was evident in the speeches. Senate President Pedro Rollán and Juan José Imbroda launched harsh criticisms against the central government, pointing toward a deficient management of the ongoing migration crisis.

Imbroda was blunt, describing the current situation as one of the "greatest failures of a Government in the history of Spanish democracy," denouncing a dereliction of duty and irresponsibility in the defense of the national border.

Demands for Sovereignty and Security

For his part, Juan Jesús Vivas, President of Ceuta, focused his demands on security and sovereignty. He detailed the critical points necessary to restore normality to his city:

Mass Return

The return to Morocco of individuals who entered the city during July.

European Support

Increased presence of the European Union in health, justice, and education sectors.

Border Shielding

Strict border control coordinated between Spain and the EU.

Decision Autonomy

Ensuring the fate of the autonomous cities does not depend on decisions made by Morocco.

Despite these strong demands, Vivas emphasized that the path forward must be based on relations of mutual respect with the neighboring country, maintaining a hopeful outlook for diplomatic stability.

Source: Institutional records of the Spanish Senate.