He will be one of the favorites in the elections to the Generalitat of Catalonia this Sunday, May 12. The socialist Salvador Illa is, however, a newcomer to Catalan political life. Moderate, a philosopher by training, he built a calming image as Minister of Health during the pandemic which he now exploits in the Catalan political context.
A trained philosopher, mayor of Roca del Vallès north of Barcelona for 10 years, Salvador Illa (58 years old) was unknown to the general public until four years ago. The destiny of this member of the Socialist Party changed when he was appointed Minister of Health in the Spanish government a few weeks before the start of the Covid crisis.
“It must have been a quiet position because health is decentralized in Spain”explains Albert Solé, one of his close friends. “But with covid, he suddenly found himself in a historic role at the heart of the storm. And he managed it very well: he was able to convey a feeling of calm and serenity”.
The amnesty did good to Catalonia
Propelled by the pandemic, Salvador Illa returned to Catalonia, at the request of Pedro Sanchez. This marathon runner, who takes the time to run four times a week, presents himself as the man of consensus. While he vigorously demonstrated against independence in 2017 and supported the suspension of Catalonia’s autonomy after the referendum, he supported the amnesty law. “The climate is different and we owe it to the Spanish government’s policy of relaxation and normalization”underlines Salvador Illa to the Independent. “The amnesty is good for Catalonia. It is positive that Puigdemont can stand for elections and return home”.
Supporter of Espanyol Barcelona
Social democrat, close to businesses and economic elites, Salvador Illa, described as “candidate from Madrid” by the separatists, also irritates the most left-wing voters. Favorable for the expansion of Barcelona airport, he also defends the Hard Rock mega casino project near Tarragona. During the televised debates, the socialist, supporter of Espanyol Barcelona highlighted his managerial qualities.
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He also reached out to his adversaries and did not close the door to any alliance except with the far right. It recorded significant rallies: two former independence leaders, including the former mayor of Figueres but also the famous police commissioner Josep Lluis Trapero, at the head of the Mossos d’Esquadra during the Barcelona attacks and during the 2017 referendum , gave him their support.
The Independent – Henry de Laguérie
