Catalonia Today, June 15, 2006 | The triumphalism of the “yes” vote

An excess euphoria can have a boomerang effect. If those favouring a "yes" vote for the Estatut are overconfident, then some voters might stay at home on Sunday, or go to the beach thinking that others will vote for them. In contrast, the supporters of the "no" vote are not lowering their guard in the face of the media and political offensive. Furthermore, on election night, the pro-sovereignty "no" vote will be happy at any result over 20%. So I don't know to what extent the triumphalism of the "yes" vote is a good idea for the campaign. What is clear is the desire of the pro-"yes" tripartite (CiU, PSC and ICV) to link the pro-sovereignty "no" vote with the anti-Catalan "no" vote of the PP. The vote of fear ("against the PP wolf", say the PSC) and the vote of confusion (with plebiscites and primarie soverlapping) show a lack of democratic maturity.

Finally, the courts have forced the government to tone down its campaign. In a serious country, the head of the campaign woul dhave resigned. It is outrageous that the courts have to prevent the government from carrying out a biased campaign. A little respect for the electorate, gentlemen.

(Article de Saül Gordillo al setmanari Catalonia Today, 15 de juny de 2006, pàgina 3.)