Spain to Catalonia: Did you declare independence or not?

MADRID — Spain’s prime minister on Wednesday asked the head of the secession-minded Catalonia region the question that no one can seem to answer: Did he declare independence or not?

The query reflected more than just confusion. Clarity on Catalonia’s position is critical for Spain to map out its next move — including possible harsh measures against Catalonia if it proclaims itself a sovereign nation.

The uncertainty comes after the region’s president, Carles Puigdemont, told the Catalan Parliament in Barcelona on Tuesday that Catalonia had the right to be an independent country, citing a disputed referendum last week that showed strong support for secession from Spain.

But instead of an outright declaration, Puigdemont said the “effect” of independence would be delayed for several weeks to facilitate further dialogue with Madrid. He then signed a document that some perceived as formalizing a break from Spain, baffling observers in Barcelona and Madrid alike.

On Wednesday, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy delivered a speech in which he accused Puigdemont of sowing “deliberate confusion.” He also asked the Catalan leader to clarify his position.

“This call — before any of the measures that the government may adopt under Article 155 of our constitution — seeks to offer citizens the clarity and security that a question of such importance requires.”

Article 155 of Spain’s constitution, known as the “nuclear option,” allows Madrid to suspend Catalonia’s devolved government and take over running the region should it declare independence.

On Wednesday, the Spanish government appeared to close the door on any offer of negotiation but notably did not proceed with activating Article 155.

Puigdemont has until Monday to clarify his position, according to the Spanish government’s formal request to the regional leader. If he declines to answer or says that he has declared independence, the Spanish government will give him until Oct. 19 to rethink his position and return Catalonia to the rule of law. If that maneuver fails, Rajoy will start the necessary procedures to activate Article 155

Catalan authorities said, however, that independence was inevitable and that it was up to Madrid to negotiate the best possible deal.