Spanish Constitution Becomes Longest-Lasting Basic Law Amid Criticism in PSOE

The February 18th anniversary of Spain's basic law became not only an occasion for national pride but also a stage for political manifestations. The 1978 Constitution, having lasted over 17,239 days, officially broke the longevity record set by the document from the Bourbon Restoration era. King Felipe VI emphasized in his speech that the best way to honor this act is to abide by it, which was interpreted as a subtle admonishment to the government in the context of disputes over the state budget. The main media focus, however, was the meeting between Pedro Sánchez and former Prime Minister Felipe González. Their brief and cold handshake in the Hall of Lost Steps became a symbol of the internal fracture within the PSOE PSOE. González, an icon of Spain's transition, openly criticizes the government's current alliances with separatist parties and announced he would cast a blank vote in the upcoming elections if Sánchez remains at the top of the electoral lists. The 1978 Constitution was the result of a broad national consensus after General Franco's dictatorship, ushering Spain into an era of parliamentary democracy and territorial decentralization in the form of autonomous communities. Prime Minister Sánchez, on an official visit to New Delhi, responded to the criticism with a heavy dose of irony. He stated that González would likely have to wait the "many years" he mentioned before voting for the socialists again, as he himself plans to seek re-election in 2027. Meanwhile, words of support for the historic leader came from regional baron Emiliano García-Page, who on the television program "El Hormiguero" accused the current party leadership of envy towards their predecessors' achievements and warned that history will judge Sánchez more harshly than he assumes. In the background of the personal dispute, a debate on the rule of law and state stability is ongoing. Treasury Minister María Jesús Montero defends the lack of new budgets, citing the constitutional possibility of their extension. However, the opposition and some legal circles point out that the abuse of budgetary provisional measures undermines the foundations of parliamentary responsibility. „The best way to honor the Constitution is to abide by it.” — Felipe VI 17,239 — days the current Spanish constitution has been in effect