Madrid:Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced early elections for November 29 after parliament rejected two government housing decrees amid rising protests over the country's housing crisis.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sanchez made the announcement from his official residence in Madrid, where he stated he would convene his Cabinet later the same day to initiate the election process. He acknowledged his government’s shortcomings and emphasized the need for a stronger parliamentary majority to advance further reforms.

The decision follows the defeat of two housing decrees on Friday, which were drafted in response to protests sparked by the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her Madrid home. The Catalan separatist party Junts, alongside the conservative Popular Party and far-right Vox, voted against the measures despite ongoing negotiations with the government.

Thousands of Spaniards took to the streets over the weekend to demand action on housing, with protesters camping in Madrid's Puerta del Sol square. Sanchez framed the upcoming election as a choice between continuing progressive reforms or aligning with a far-right agenda that would reverse rights.

He appealed for a more extensive progressive majority, advocating for Spain to remain a model of openness and social justice. Highlighting his government's successes, Sanchez cited economic growth, job creation, reduced inequality, and investments in education and healthcare among the achievements, along with support for Ukraine and international cooperation.

Spain last held a general election in 2023, resulting in a coalition government led by Sanchez's Socialist Party and the left-wing Sumar alliance, with support from smaller parties including Junts. The next election was originally scheduled for no later than August 22, 2027.