Galician nationalist leader Xosé Manuel Beiras dies

Beiras dies, a pivotal figure in Galician nationalism

Xosé Manuel Beiras, a leading voice of Galician nationalism and intellectual reference for decades, has died at age 90. The news, first reported by elDiario.es, triggered a wave of reactions ranging from tributes to ideological reckonings.

From professor to nationalist leader

Born in Santiago de Compostela into an affluent family—his father was one of the founders of Televés—Beiras combined his Economics chair with political activism. His discourse, blending Marxism and Galicianism, made him a central figure in Galician nationalism during Fraga's era. In 2005, he resigned as national spokesperson of the BNG (Galician Nationalist Bloc).

His return to the forefront in 2012, leading AGE (Galician Left Alternative), caused a political earthquake: the BNG lost seats, and Beiras became a reference for radical left politics. In 2016, at 80, he was elected MP for En Marea, a coalition including Podemos and United Left. His relationship with Yolanda Díaz ended in rupture; according to statements, Beiras claimed Díaz was "the first person who betrayed me."

Economic legacy: open debate

Beyond his political role, Beiras leaves a controversial economic legacy. Critics argue his push for left-wing nationalism hindered Galicia's development, a region heavily dependent on state transfers. "Starting a separatist movement in poor, aging Galicia, totally dependent on the State, is absurd," summarizes a common view. Others defend his consistency: "He was a cultured bourgeois, rare these days," they say.

Yet, Beiras ensured Galician nationalism ceased to be a residual phenomenon. His influence extended to the national left: he was among the first to support Podemos and bridge ties with the 15M movement.

Reactions: from tribute to reckoning

Beiras' death provoked a cascade of reactions reflecting the division he embodied. From the BNG, current leader Ana Pontón highlighted his "indispensable legacy." In the Galician PP, silence prevailed, broken only by messages recalling his clashes with Fraga. On the national left, Yolanda Díaz mourned the loss of "an ethical reference."

Social media buzzed. While some celebrated his figure, others settled scores: "Always playing the Galician card," "Show respect, he was an honest man," "Vaccinated?" The polarization Beiras cultivated for decades outlives him.

Future of the nationalist space

Beiras' departure leaves a hard-to-fill void. The BNG, now in opposition, faces an electoral cycle uncertain whether his legacy will mobilize supporters or if the lack of a charismatic leader will cost them votes. Nationally, his death reopens the debate on how peripheral nationalisms fit within the left.

Beiras leaves with the same question that accompanied his life: Can Galicia be a nation without depending on Madrid? The answer, like his legacy, remains unresolved.