Arnaldo Otegi: Basque Nationalist and Former ETA Militant

Early Life and Education

Arnaldo Otegi Mondragón was born on July 6, 1958, in Elgoibar, Guipúzcoa, Spain. He holds degrees in philosophy and theology from various institutions.

Political Career

Otegi is known for his involvement in Basque nationalist politics. He has been a member of the Basque nationalist party and served as its General Secretary. Otegi's political views are characterized by his support for Basque independence and his Marxist ideology.

ETA Affiliation

Otegi was a member of the Basque separatist group Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA). He was arrested in 1998 and was imprisoned for his involvement in the group. After his release from prison in 2016, Otegi has continued to advocate for Basque self-determination through non-violent means.

Recent Developments

Otegi is the leader of the left-wing separatist party EH Bildu. In the 2020 Basque parliamentary election, EH Bildu emerged as the second political force, indicating continued support for Basque independence among voters.