The Catalan separatist party Junts has decided to break its support pact with Spain's left-wing government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, raising the threat of a government crisis.

This decision is driven by disagreements over the incomplete implementation of a controversial amnesty law and the failure to recognize Catalan as an official EU language.

Although the move still requires approval from Junts members, votes scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday are widely expected to endorse the decision, potentially ending Junts' support in the Spanish Congress.

The 2024 amnesty law, narrowly passed, does not cover embezzlement charges against Catalan leaders like Puigdemont, who remains in exile due to legal restrictions.

Puigdemont, living in Belgium to avoid Spanish justice over allegations related to the 2017 referendum, cannot benefit from the amnesty law and continues to be wanted by Spain’s Supreme Court.

Puigdemont has stated he will seek party support through a consultation to decide whether to continue backing Sánchez’s government or move into opposition, citing discontent over the government's lack of support for Catalonia.

The support pact with Junts, crucial for Sánchez’s re-election in July 2023, was based on concessions including the amnesty law, which remains a point of contention due to its limited scope.

Junts has historically supported Sánchez’s government in exchange for concessions, but their current stance reflects unmet expectations, especially regarding Catalan independence and autonomy.

Puigdemont’s support was pivotal in passing the amnesty law, seen as a victory for Catalan independence supporters, but his current opposition signals a shift due to unfulfilled promises.

Experts warn that Sánchez could be ousted with votes from Junts, the conservative Popular Party, and Vox, potentially leading to new elections after seven years in power.

The ongoing tensions over Catalonia’s push for independence and autonomy continue to influence Spanish politics, with Puigdemont emphasizing that his political project is not aimed at Spain’s stability.