Spanish conservatives end socialist rule in Andalucia with help of far-right Vox

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After decades of socialist rule, the conservative Popular Party (PP) has taken power in Andalucia, southern Spain, with the help far-right party Vox.

The anti-immigration party agreed to support a Conservative/centre-right coalition after 12 of its MPs unexpectedly won seats in a December election.

Juan Moreno Bonilla, from the PP, will become president after accepting controversial elements of the Vox party, such as commitments to tackle illegal immigration, reduce regional taxes, and combat Islamic fundamentalism.

"Today, illegal immigration and corruption lose (...) and the Andalusians, the defence of the family and a more pluralistic politics win," Vox deputy leader Javier Ortega told the media.

The PP also struck a deal with centre-right Ciudadanos to form a coalition government.

Analysis from Euronews' Spanish service journalist, Oscar Valero

Vox is very similar to other far-right parties we've seen recently in Germany, Italy, or France, in many aspects. For example, they're against immigration and we have to remember that Andalucia is one of the gates to immigration in Spain. They're also against feminist ideas, something that we can see, for example, in US President Donald Trump, which appeals to male voters.

But one of their main differences is their economic message, which is very close to the liberals — making the links with the right much easier.

Could Vox one day rule Andalucia on its own?

We will have to wait until March to know more. That's the big test, with the European elections, local elections, regional elections. We will see then what real strength they have.

But the biggest thing we've seen is that the traditional right is starting to accept proposals by Vox, which could change the country.