Rajoy debate absence both surprises, causes speculation

The decision taken by Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy to not appear in a live electoral debate with the leaders of Spain's main parties has shocked Spain.

The live debate between the leaders of the People's Party, the Socialists (PSOE), Citizens (Ciudadanos) and Podemos is scheduled to be broadcast live on TV stations Antena 3 and la Sexta on Dec. 7, less than two weeks ahead of the general election.

However, although PSOE leader, Pedro Sanchez, Citizens leader Albert Rivera and Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias are all taking part in the debate, Rajoy will not appear in the studio and will be replaced by Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria.

The announcement of Rajoy's non-appearance at the debate had an immediate impact in Spain, with the hashtag #RajoyTieneMiedo (Rajoy is scared) becoming the top trending topic on social network site Twitter.

Podemos' political secretary, Inigo Errejon posted the comment that "the Prime Minister of a country cannot turn his back on it and run away without giving any explanation," while Citizems' leader Rivera commented "Rajoy only wants to debate with Sanchez. He doesn't want to face those who are closest to beating him on Dec. 20."

Meanwhile, Sanchez also criticized Rajoy's failure to attend, saying "democracy is debate and a Prime Minister cannot hide."

With polls indicating at the moment that Rajoy's ruling People's Party will win the election, but will fall well short of a majority, his decision to send his deputy to the debate is almost certain to cost his party votes. Endit