Aliança Catalana expels its Figueres candidate over relationship with former student

The party withdraws confidence in Arnau Liesa due to a personal situation incompatible with its principles, while he defends his relationship as a "love story".

Generic image of a podium with microphones.
IA

Generic image of a podium with microphones.

Aliança Catalana has unanimously agreed to withdraw confidence in its candidate for mayor of Figueres, Arnau Liesa, and initiate disciplinary proceedings for his expulsion.

The Governing Committee of Aliança Catalana has made the decision to withdraw confidence in Arnau Liesa, the party's candidate for mayor of Figueres, and has initiated disciplinary proceedings with the aim of expelling him. The party argues that the decision is based on a personal situation of the candidate, not previously communicated, which they consider "incompatible with the foundational principles" of the political project.
After being informed of the decision, Liesa chose to voluntarily disassociate himself from the party. Aliança Catalana has thanked him for this decision and stated that they will continue working to present a "solid, honest, and value-driven" candidacy to the residents of Figueres.

"A story that we accept naturally and that, despite everything it has entailed, I would choose again without hesitation, because it is the love story of my life."

Arnau Liesa · Former candidate for Aliança Catalana in Figueres
In a subsequent letter, Arnau Liesa detailed the reasons for the crisis. He explained that, while working as a teacher, he began a romantic relationship with a student over 16 years old. According to his account, he voluntarily resigned from teaching before starting the relationship, calling it a "love story". Liesa acknowledged making a "mistake" by not informing the party, taking responsibility and submitting his resignation as a candidate and from all his organic positions.
The former leader expressed sadness but also conviction in his decision to avoid harming the party. He thanked the trust received and stated that he will continue defending the same ideals from outside of any organic responsibility, reaffirming his personal decision.