Vox Walks Out as Borja Sémper Addresses Parliament in Basque Language

The PP deputy has employed the Basque language during the parliamentary session in the Congress, despite declaring just one day prior that they would speak in Spanish to avoid appearing foolish.

In a surprising turn of events, the member of the Popular Party (PP) showcased their linguistic versatility by addressing fellow parliamentarians in Euskera, the native language of the Basque Country. This unexpected choice comes on the heels of their recent statement, where they expressed intentions to exclusively communicate in Spanish within the hallowed halls of the Congress, so as not to appear naïve or gullible.

This linguistic flip-flop, which occurred within a short span of time, has sparked intrigue and raised eyebrows among both colleagues and observers. The decision to deviate from their initial stance has certainly captured attention and invited speculation about the motives behind this sudden linguistic shift.

Language has always played a significant role in political debates, symbolizing identity, power, and inclusivity. The deliberate use of Euskera by the PP deputy can be seen as an attempt to connect with the culturally rich heritage of the Basque region, showcasing an awareness and appreciation for its linguistic nuances. By deploying the Basque language in a formal setting such as the Congress, the deputy appears to be sending a clear message of support and solidarity to the Basque-speaking community.

However, this linguistic maneuver has also raised questions about the authenticity of the politician’s intentions. The previous pledge to solely employ Spanish during parliamentary sessions, seemingly aimed at avoiding embarrassment, now appears contradictory in light of their spontaneous switch to Euskera. Skeptics argue that this linguistic acrobatics could be perceived as a mere political stunt, intended to curry favor with the Basque electorate ahead of upcoming elections.

Moreover, the PP deputy’s oscillating linguistic stance brings into focus the wider issue of language politics in Spain. The country is characterized by its rich tapestry of languages, with Spanish being the official language, but several regions also boasting their own co-official languages, such as Euskera in the Basque Country. The use of language can be a contentious topic, with political parties often grappling with the complexities of linguistic diversity while striving to maintain unity.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how this linguistic twist will impact the public’s perception of the PP deputy and their party. Will this unexpected display of linguistic versatility resonate positively with voters or be viewed as a strategic move aimed at winning political points? Only time will reveal the true ramifications of this linguistic about-face in the charged arena of Spanish politics.

David Baker

David Baker