Salvador Illa, the president of the Generalitat of Catalonia, announced that he will be rejoining his duties on February 16 after a month-long illness that led to his hospitalization. Illa was hospitalized on January 17 due to weakness in his lower limbs and severe pain, and was soon diagnosed with a rare bone infection in his pelvis. After receiving antibiotic treatment, he exited the ICU after a few days and was discharged from the hospital shortly thereafter.

During his recuperation, Illa's responsibilities were temporarily handled by Albert Dalmau, the conseller of the Presidency, who managed the affairs of the Generalitat in Illa's absence. While the doctors support Illa's gradual return to his political role, he will need to continue rehabilitation exercises to regain full mobility in his legs. This situation presents implications for Catalan governance as Illa's leadership is pivotal in the current political climate.

The announcement of Illa's return is significant not just for his party, the PSC, but also for the broader political landscape in Catalonia. Illa's prior role in addressing various political challenges, particularly regarding Catalonian autonomy and relations with Madrid, will be closely watched as he reintegrates into his position. His health journey underlines the importance of leadership stability amid ongoing political negotiations and the need for a smooth administrative transition.