Following the announcement by the municipal group leader, Jordi Martí Galbis, of his intention to be the candidate, and the subsequent withdrawal of Josep Rius from leading the candidacy to avoid internal conflict, the landscape for Junts in Barcelona is becoming increasingly intricate. Lawyer Jaume Alonso-Cuevillas has confirmed his willingness to run, while former Economy Minister Jaume Giró is also leaving the door open to participate in the process.
Sources close to Jaume Giró indicate that the former deputy and bank executive is not ruling out a candidacy, encouraged by calls to "take this step for the good of the city." It is recalled that the current situation differs from that of 2022, when Carles Puigdemont proposed him to lead the list, an offer Giró ultimately declined to remain as minister. Ultimately, the candidacy was led by Xavier Trias.
Earlier this year, Giró mentioned that Aliança Catalana had offered him their candidacy for Barcelona, an offer he rejected. The veracity of this proposal was later questioned by representatives of Aliança Catalana in Barcelonès.
“"Junts is a party that since its formation, and I was part of the core, has prided itself on strong internal democracy. The membership has voted for the candidate for President of the Generalitat, whether we left the Government with ERC, and other decisions, and it would not make sense now that if there is more than one candidate it would be a hierarchical decision. If primaries are indeed called, as I hope, I will finalize my decision... I feel strong and eager."
Jaume Alonso-Cuevillas has emphasized the importance of internal primaries for the party's democracy and expressed his desire to participate if they are convened. Via social media, he clarified that his final decision will depend on the official call for primaries, but reiterated that he feels "strong and eager."
Jordi Martí Galbis has also defended the right to participate in primaries, believing they "enrich Junts' political project" and allow for a richer internal debate. He expressed being "delighted" that other party colleagues are also stepping forward.
Initially, Josep Rius was the preferred candidate of the leadership and President Puigdemont. However, Martí Galbis's entry altered his conditions, and Rius stated he would not participate in "a logic of confrontation and internal division," arguing that such dynamics "weaken us" both at the city and national level.
Other names such as former Interior Minister, former President Artur Mas (who declined the offer), former Health Minister Josep Maria Argimon, and businessman Tatxo Benet have also been considered by the Junts per Barcelona leadership.
The process to select the candidate will culminate with the establishment of the Municipal Territorial Commission (CMT). The regulations, approved by the national council, stipulate that precandidates will need 20% of endorsements. The CMT will subsequently decide the election method: direct vote by the commission, a proposal to the assembly of members, or primaries, if there is more than one precandidate.
