Proponents of the current Junts strategy argue that prioritizing the return of Carles Puigdemont is a matter of fundamental justice and democratic legitimacy. From this viewpoint, the 2017 events were a political expression of the Catalan people, and the subsequent legal actions taken against their leaders were disproportionate. By making his return a central condition for their parliamentary support, Junts is effectively using its leverage to correct what they perceive as a historical wrong.
This approach is seen as a way to normalize the political situation in Catalonia. Supporters believe that as long as key political figures remain in exile, the conflict between Barcelona and Madrid cannot be truly resolved. By forcing the issue to the forefront of national politics, Junts ensures that the 'Catalan question' remains a priority for the central government, preventing it from being sidelined or ignored by the PSOE.
Furthermore, this strategy serves to unify the pro-independence base. For many voters, Puigdemont remains the legitimate representative of their aspirations. By standing firm on his return, Junts demonstrates consistency and commitment to its core principles, which helps maintain party cohesion in a challenging political environment. This is not merely about one individual, but about the recognition of a political movement that represents a significant portion of the Catalan population.
Ultimately, supporters argue that a successful negotiation leading to Puigdemont's return would be a victory for dialogue over judicialization. It would signal that the Spanish state is willing to engage in a political solution rather than relying solely on the courts to manage regional tensions, potentially opening the door to a more stable and constructive relationship between the two governments.