Spanish pensioner whose eviction sparked nationwide protests dies, union says

Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old pensioner, passed away after a 70-year-long battle against eviction in Spain. Her eviction, which occurred in September, sparked nationwide protests over the country's housing crisis and a political dispute that led to early elections. Abascal's father initially rented the apartment in 1956, and she became the tenant after her parents' deaths.

When Urbagestión, a company that bought the property in 2018, raised the rent from €500 to €2,650 per month, Abascal could no longer afford it. Despite the company's offer to reduce the rent to €1,650, she was unable to sign an agreement as she had been hospitalized.

The Madrid Tenants Union, which represents Abascal, regrets her passing and calls it a turning point in the country's history. Union spokesperson Alicia del Río emphasized that speculation costs lives and that Abascal's memory lives on. Abascal became a symbol of the housing crisis, and her eviction marked a critical moment in Spain's history.

The Union also noted that an agreement to allow her to return to her home had been reached but was too late. She expressed her hope that her fight would inspire others to fight for their rights.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez acknowledged Abascal's contribution and the public outcry over her situation. He called for an early election on November 29 and urged for a broader progressive majority to overcome resistance and push through housing reforms. The political turmoil in Spain has been exacerbated by corruption scandals linked to his party and the high cost of living.

Most opinion polls suggest that the conservative party would likely emerge as the largest in the upcoming election, but would need the support of the hard-right Vox party to form a government.