Juan Ramón Carasatorre, one of the prisoners of the Basque separatist group ETA convicted for the 1995 murder of the Popular Party leader Gregorio Ordóñez, has recently been granted semi-liberty. This decision, made in January, allows Carasatorre to leave the Zaballa prison during weekdays while requiring him to return to the facility at night and on weekends. The decision was confirmed by the Basque Government's Department of Justice and Human Rights and was based on a recommendation from the prison's treatment board.

The application of Article 100.2 of the Penitentiary Regulations signifies a step towards a more flexible regimen for inmates, aimed at facilitating their social reintegration through work or volunteering. Carasatorre remains classified under second-degree status, meaning he has not yet moved to a less restrictive third-degree status. This semi-liberty status is often accompanied by an execution plan, which individuals must follow to warrant their advancement in the prison system, suggesting a controlled approach to rehabilitation.

This development highlights ongoing debates in Spain regarding the treatment of ETA prisoners, especially those convicted of severe crimes such as murder. Advocates for victims' rights and political opponents argue against the early release of ETA members, often viewing it as undermining justice for past offenses. This case underscores the complexities and sensitivities involved in the legal processes surrounding individuals linked to terrorism in Spain, as society grapples with historic violence and the path toward reconciliation.