They claim that the charges held against their clients are not punishable in Belgium, and what’s more, an extradition would constitute a violation of their fundamental rights.

After more than three hours since the beginning of the audience before the Council Chamber, the five defendants’ lawyers appeared on the steps of the Brussels Courthouse.



The prosecution repeated their requisition in favor of extradition as at the first audience, Mr. Marchand, who represents two ex-ministers, reported.

For their part, the defense attorneys pleaded that the allegations held against the defendants were not punishable in Belgium. “What’s more, if they are extradited, there would be a risk of violating their fundamental rights,” Mr. Marchand and Bekaert, with their Spanish counterpart, stipulated. They made no further comment.



The Judge will now look into their arguments. The case has been reserved for judgment. The Council Chamber’s decision will be known on 14 December, that is a week before Catalonia elections.

Maria Novak
The Brussels Times