A Spanish judge has withdrawn an international arrest warrant for the former Catalan President Carles Puigdemont and four other ministers. They fled to Belgium a month ago after declaring unilateral independence in a referendum ruled illegal by Spain. <br/><br/>Despite the withdrawal, the judge said they still faced possible charges for sedition and rebellion. Rebellion is considered one of the most serious crimes in Spain, carrying a jail term of up to 30 years. <br/><br/>Spanish Supreme Court judge, Pablo Llareno, announced the move today, citing willingness the former Catalan President had shown to return to Spain ahead of fresh regional elections. The five were fighting extradition back to Spain, saying they could not be guaranteed a fair trial on their return. <br/><br/>Campaigning has now officially started ahead of the 21 December vote moved forward by Spanish authorities. Speaking from a video-link from Belgium yesterday night, Mr Puigdemont said the new vote is a choice between nation or submission.
News On AIR | December 5, 2017 5:09 PM
Spanish judge withdraws arrest warrant for Carles Puigdemont & four other ministers