22 June 2021 05:41 PM

Pardons for jailed independence leaders: How did we get here?

9 to 13-year prison sentences for sedition and misuse of funds followed 2017 independence referendum

Former presidency minister argues the court was not impartial and his freedom of expression was breached

Pedro Sánchez’s government faces growing pressure from opposition over possible release of pro-independence politicians

Both politicians lose regular day leaves and will have to enter prison again as the other seven officials behind bars have

Solicitor general avoids taking a side, non-binding Supreme Court review remains last step before final cabinet decision

Pardon or reform of criminal code are considered by Spanish government, but fears of opposition "blackmailing" to avoid it arise

Ups and downs for pro-independence activists and politicians, who could benefit from pardons or criminal code reform in near future