Thousands march in Madrid over the death of 87-year-old evicted woman
Following the death in the hospital of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who became a symbol of Spain's housing crisis, thousands took to the streets in Madrid.
Thousands of people in Spain's capital, Madrid, held a march in memory of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who passed away in the hospital after being evicted, reigniting debates across the country regarding the housing crisis.
Memorial March in Madrid
Gathering in central Madrid, thousands of people led by the orange-vested members of the Tenants' Union marched with flowers from Puerta del Sol square toward Abascal's former home near Retiro Park.
Eviction Process and Death
Maricarmen Abascal had lost her legal battle against rent increases after an investment fund bought the building and was evicted from her home on September 23.
Hospitalized following the eviction due to severe anxiety and exhaustion, the 87-year-old woman passed away on Wednesday despite securing an agreement to return to her home.
Political Debates
Following Abascal's death, political leaders traded accusations, with the left criticizing conservatives for rejecting laws to curb rent increases.
The right argued that the ruling Socialist government failed to resolve the housing crisis during its eight years in power and claimed the incident was being exploited for political gain.
Early Election Decision
Following growing nationwide protests against housing shortages and exorbitant rent increases, Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that early general elections will be held on November 29.
Public Opinion Polls and Search for Solutions
A poll published by the state research center CIS showed that 76.3% of Spaniards support market intervention to guarantee access to housing.
Ombudsman Angel Gabilondo stated that to solve the housing crisis, public housing must be increased, tourist rentals restricted, and vulnerable households protected.