José María Rotellar published an opinion piece on August 6, 2026, backing King Felipe and the Spanish Crown following the crisis in Ceuta. Rotellar argued that strengthening the monarch strengthens institutional stability across Spain.
Under the Spanish Constitution, the King holds a precise function to arbitrate, moderate, and advise. Rotellar wrote that this role intentionally places the monarch above political battles, making the Crown a vital factor for state unity and continuity.
Rotellar noted that the current government has not always made exercising this function easy. He said Don Felipe has suffered clear institutional slights on several occasions, which many observers interpreted as attempts to erode the Crown. These circumstances require the King to exercise extreme prudence while maintaining firmness in defending the general interest.
Constitutional Role in the Ceuta Crisis
Rotellar highlighted the crisis in Ceuta, where King Felipe called on the State to adopt necessary measures to prevent similar events from recurring. He said the message reflects the constitutional role of the Head of State, respecting government powers without remaining indifferent to issues affecting national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
Rotellar acknowledged that many prepared young citizens face high taxes, housing difficulties, and limited job prospects. While some young people want the King to speak out more forcefully, Rotellar emphasized that the Crown derives its strength from strictly respecting its constitutional limits rather than acting as a decorative institution.
Institutional Stability and the Royal Family
Rotellar emphasized that measured interventions by the monarchy carry immense weight. He recalled a statement from a friend who remarked that the Royal House and the euro are the only barriers separating Spain from chaos.
Rotellar urged support for the institution, understanding its constitutional limits, and valuing the example set by King Felipe and the future role of the Princess of Asturias. He concluded that weakening the Crown benefits those seeking to undermine constitutional pillars and return the nation to the dark era of the Second Republic.
