LAWYERS at the Catalan independence trial have complained that the rights of the accused are being violated by principal judge Manuel Marchena’s refusal to allow cross-examination of witnesses referring to videos of the events to which their evidence relates.
Andreu Van den Eynde, who is representing former ministers Oriol Junqueras and Raul Romeva, asked that a recording be used as documentary evidence in his interrogation of a Spanish Civil Guard officer, but Marchena dismissed his request, telling him: “This is recorded, and it is the fifth time that you request a video as a supplement.
“I know that you want me to confront you, but that is not the case. It’s resolved.”
Marina Roig, the lawyer for civic leader Jordi Cuixart, added: “The witnesses explain that they have taken part in investigations … the defence does not know that they have taken part in the investigations in which they say they have intervened and explain things in which they have intervened ...”
Marchena also dismissed her request.
The defence team has filed several formal complaints about Marchena’s refusal to allow video evidence.
Meanwhile, the Catalan Ombudsman yesterday recommended the removal of yellow ribbons from government buildings during the election campaign.
Rafael Ribo had been asked to rule by Catalan President Quim Torra, who had ignored deadlines for removing the signs of solidarity for those on trial and in exile.
However, Ribo said: “This is a temporary measure, which should only be valid during the electoral period.”
Spain goes to the polls on April 28 with the last day of campaigning two days before.
The Spanish Electoral Authority had ordered for all “partisan” symbols to be removed. This included the “Estelada” Catalan independence flag.
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