Eta to launch new non-violent political party
The banned political wing of Basque separatist group Eta is to create a new party that rejects violence.
The Batasuna party’s move comes amid growing speculation that Eta might be preparing to end 40 years of violence following a cease-fire declaration in September.
The Gara newspaper, which often serves as a mouthpiece for the group, said the new party would aim to field candidates in Basque local elections next year, advocating exclusively peaceful means toward Basque independence.
Spain has said rejecting violence is not enough and that to regain legal status Batasuna must persuade Eta to renounce violence forever or break all links with the group.
Batasuna was outlawed in 2003 on the grounds that it is a part of Eta.
