Spain's 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, whose eviction sparked nationwide housing protests, died after a prolonged legal battle with landlords. Her death has intensified political tensions as Spain's government faces calls for urgent housing reforms.
Abascal, who had been evicted from her Madrid home in September 2026 after a rent increase far exceeding her pension, was hospitalized for severe anxiety and exhaustion. She died after a final agreement to return to her home was reached but she was unable to sign the contract before her death. Protests continue across Spain as the government faces scrutiny over its handling of the housing crisis.
The death of Abascal has led to renewed calls for political action, with Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez calling snap elections for November 29. Opponents accuse the government of exploiting the crisis for political gain, while left-leaning parties criticize conservatives for rejecting housing legislation.
The death of Abascal has sparked a public outcry, with protesters blaming 'greedy' landlords and political leaders for the crisis. The case has become a symbol of the housing crisis, highlighting the disparity between private rental markets and the need for government intervention.