Spain prosecutors seek ex-Catalan leader’s disqualification

CP1691201793
FILE - In this Jan. 9, 2016 file photo, acting regional President Artur Mas pauses during a news conference in Barcelona. Spanish prosecutors said on Monday, Oct. 3, 2016 that they are seeking a 10-year disqualification from holding public office for former Catalan regional President Artur Mas for staging a vote on Catalonia\'s secession from Spain despite a suspension order by the Constitutional Court. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti, File)

MADRID – Spanish prosecutors are seeking a 10-year disqualification from holding public office for former Catalan regional President Artur Mas for staging a vote on Catalonia’s secession from Spain despite a suspension order by the constitutional Court.

The prosecutor’s office on Monday also called for nine-year disqualifications for two other ex-regional officials facing trial along with Mas on charges of grave disobedience and prevarication for staging the non-binding ballot on Nov. 9, 2014.

Mas, president of the powerful northeastern region between 2010 and 2016, claims the ballot was staged by volunteers. He is currently head of the Democratic Catalan Party, which governs in coalition in the region.

Catalonia held the poll after plans to stage a proper referendum were suspended when the Spanish government challenged its legality.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles