Spanish Pensioner Maricarmen Abascal Dies Following High-Profile Eviction

Maricarmen Abascal, the 87-year-old Spanish pensioner whose recent eviction became a flashpoint for nationwide protests, has died, according to the Madrid Tenants' Union. Abascal was forcibly removed on a stretcher from her Madrid apartment on September 23 after being unable to meet substantial rent increases.

Her death on October 7 triggered immediate public vigils, including a gathering at Madrid's Puerta del Sol, where thousands have been camping for 12 days to demand affordable housing. Protesters held a minute of silence followed by demonstrations that moved toward the Spanish Congress, where activists chanted against the evictions and housing policies.

Abascal’s case drew national attention due to the longevity of her tenure; her family had occupied the property since 1956. In 2018, the property was purchased by the firm Urbagestión, which subsequently raised her rent from €500 per month to €2,650. Despite a later offer to reduce the rent to €1,650, the amount remained higher than Abascal’s monthly pension. The company reportedly offered to allow her to return to the apartment at a lower rate after her eviction, but she was hospitalized before an agreement could be signed.

The public outcry surrounding Abascal's situation contributed to significant political instability. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently failed to pass emergency housing legislation in Congress, prompting him to call for early elections on November 29. Sánchez stated he is seeking a "broader progressive majority" to enact reforms. Meanwhile, the political opposition, led by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, has challenged the government’s approach to market intervention, arguing such policies could further reduce rental availability.

Following the legislative failure, unions have called for a general strike scheduled for November 11. In a statement, the Madrid Tenants' Union described Abascal’s death as a "turning point in the history of this country" and emphasized that the housing agreement offered to her had arrived too late.