Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez calls early election for November

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called an early election for 29 November 2026, RTE reported. The decision follows the rejection of key housing decrees proposed by his government in a fragmented parliament last week. In a televised address, Mr Sanchez stated that his government needs to renew support from the public to win a larger progressive majority. [1]

The election announcement comes amid widespread public anger and demonstrations across the country over affordable housing. As FTMQ News reported earlier, tens of thousands of people marched in approximately 50 Spanish cities, including Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona. The protests followed parliamentary votes against the emergency housing decrees and the forcible eviction of an 87-year-old woman. [1][3][4]

Demonstrators had set up a protest camp at the Puerta del Sol square in Madrid on 26 September, with up to 500,000 people marching in the capital. Protesters called for a general strike and urgent reforms to address expensive housing costs. [3][4]

The prime minister of Spain serves as the official head of government, nominates ministers and chairs the Council of Ministers. As chief executive, the prime minister directs government policies and coordinates cabinet actions. [2]