Aitor Esteban officially left his role as spokesperson for the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV) and member of the Spanish Congress on Wednesday, marking the end of nearly 21 years of parliamentary service. His departure was accompanied by heartfelt tributes from fellow lawmakers, particularly during his last session when he addressed Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.
Esteban took the opportunity of his final question period to advocate for a change he felt passionately about: the reform of Spain's Law of Official Secrets, originally enacted during the Franco dictatorship. "I ask you to change the law of official secrets. It is unacceptable for us to continue with a Franco-era law. I hope to see it, even if I am no longer here," he urged Sánchez, drawing attention to the outdated nature of the legislation.
His appeal for reform, not surprisingly, received warm applause from many members of Congress, particularly from the PSOE and PNV benches. The reaction starkly contrasted with the absence of support from the opposition parties, PP and Vox, who remained seated during the ovation.
Prime Minister Sánchez praised Esteban’s contributions to the workings of the legislature and expressed regret over losing one of its most articulate speakers. "The applause speaks for itself, but I also want to congratulate you on your election as president of Euzkadi Buru Batzar (EBB)," Sánchez remarked, recognizing the legacy Esteban leaves behind both as a parliamentarian and the new leader of his party.
Esteban's commitment to ensuring transparency continued through his explicit call for the reform of the antiquated law. The PNV party has been attempting to modify the Law of Official Secrets for nine years, which details how and when official documents can be declassified. Esteban highlighted the need for this reform to align Spain’s laws with contemporary democratic standards, arguing against the continued utilization of policies rooted in authoritarian practices.
Throughout his tenure, Esteban has been known for his incisive critiques and bold claims against the PP, especially following its alliance with Vox, which he deemed problematic for Spanish politics. He warned against the consequences of such political alignments, stating, "To add our votes, the 33 votes from Vox must be removed."
One memorable moment occurred during former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy's investiture debate, highlighted by Esteban’s wit when he quipped, "If you truly care for me, Mariano, give less wood and more grain.” Rajoy quickly responded with humor of his own, marking their exchange as one for the history books. Esteban has since used similar rhetoric to criticize current opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo, accusing him of relying too much on the support of Vox.
During his final speech, Esteban also touched upon Europe’s need for solid strategies, especially against the backdrop of shifting global alliances and the need for independent European defense capabilities. He stated, "We must prepare without delay the embryo of European defense, without counting on the United States anymore." This shows his commitment to pushing for strategic advancements not just domestically but on the European stage as well.
Sánchez, acknowledging Spain’s role on the international stage, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to aid. “Spain is one of the countries contributing the most to peace, security, and the reconstruction of Ukraine,” he declared, expressing satisfaction with the recent decision to allocate additional funds to help Ukraine during its conflict with Russia.
While the PNV prepares for new leadership, Esteban's call for reform and emphasis on accountability resonate strongly within the corridors of the Congreso. With Sánchez’s agreement to expedite the amendment of the Law of Official Secrets before the legislative session ends, Esteban leaves behind not only his parliamentary legacy but the promise of significant legislative reform.
Esteban’s heartfelt farewell and the commitments made by the Sánchez government evoke hope for political evolution and civil rights advancement within Spain, underscoring the impact one dedicated public servant can have on the legislative process and the larger democratic framework.