The regional elections in Catalonia are characterised by a historical turnout. According to Electoral Commission, 68.3% of all 5.5 million voters had ir votes until 18.00 p.m. In 2015 elections, it had been 63.12 percent at that time.  The polling venues were closed at 8pm, and votes are currently being counted. Observers expect a total participation of more than 80 percent.

After controversial proclamation of independence of region in norast of Spain in October, elections of regional parliament are regarded as an important indication of how much support separatists have in population. The central government in Madrid had recently put Catalonia under compulsory administration with Spanish Constitutional Article 155 and proclaimed early elections.

Polls show unclear picture

The election day was without major incidents; In front of many polling bars, snakes had formed. In Catalan parliament, 135 seats are to be re-allocated.

First polls published after elections were concluded showed a mixed picture. A telephone survey by Godo Media Group (La Vanguardia) was carried out by a narrow parliamentary majority for separatists. The three groups that are to be independent of Catalonia thus come up to 71 seats. For an absolute majority, at least 68 seats are required.

So far no statement on election outcome in Katalonien possible: In right survey, for example, independence parties have no parliamentary majority, in left already. Https://t.co/8ATB0u8MMe

— Lisa Caspari (@lisacaspari) December 21, 2017

Or surveys saw no majority for separatists. Overall, a very strong result was also expected for Liberal Party of independence opponents, Ciudadanos. It could become strongest party in survey, but re would be no government majority in camp of opponents of independence.

Commentators on Spanish television pointed out that significance of results was extremely uncertain. First results were expected for late evening. Difficult coalition negotiations are expected, as re are also some great differences of opinion within two camps – separatists and so-called "constitutional" parties.

Puigdemont had called out of exile his followers to participate in election: "Today we are again demonstrating power of an indomitable people. That spirit of 1st of October will always guide us, "he tweeted with reference to illegally held independence referendum by his government.

As he is threatened with arrest as a rebel in Spain, deposed regional president could not give his vote in person. Instead, an 18-year-old Catalan with power of attorney made cross for him at a polling station near Barcelona.

Catalonia is about size of Belgium and is located in norast of country on border with France. The region has its own language and culture and is comparatively wealthy. The economic performance is higher than that of Portugal and contributes significantly to Spanish growth. However, conflict over independence has led to uncertainty: many companies in region have moved ir headquarters to or regions.

Date Of Update: 22 December 2017, 12:02