SPAIN: Mr Jose Maria Aznar, the Spanish Prime Minister for the past seven years, yesterday handed over the running of the party to his deputy, Mr Mariano Rajoy, writes Jane Walker, in Madrid
Mr Aznar personally picked Mr Rajoy as the Popular Party (PP) candidate in the next general elections in March, and his appointment was approved yesterday by 503 in favour and one blank vote in a ballot at a special meeting of the PP National Committee.
Mr Aznar, a man who finds dialogue and negotiation difficult, has always held a tight and very personal hold on power. It was typical of him that he chose his successor without consulting anyone and apparently only informed Mr Rajoy late on Friday night before announcing his decision on Saturday.
When Mr Aznar (53) promised that he would not stand for a third four-year term as Prime Minister many believed he enjoyed power too much to actually agree to hand over the reins when the time came around.
However those who know him well say that once he has made up his mind, nothing will persuade him to change it.
Yesterday Mr Aznar stressed his successor was now in charge of the party, and would preside over meetings of the Executive Committee. "My decision to step down is definite, and I don't do anything by half measures. I am handing over all party responsibilities to Mariano."
Mr Rajoy (48) has been one of Mr Aznar's most loyal supporters. He has been described as the "minister for everything", having served in all the Aznar cabinets since the PP came to power in 1996.
His experience has included the ministries of public administration, interior, education and most recently as government spokesman and Deputy Prime Minister. However, many people say he lacks experience in economics and foreign affairs, and speaks no foreign languages.
But his supporters point to his efficient handling of the portfolios he has held, and say he is more approachable and more given to dialogue than Mr Aznar.
He will make his first trip away from Madrid this weekend by visiting the Basque Country as a sign of how seriously he views the situation in the region.
In his acceptance speech yesterday, Mr Rajoy said terrorism remained one of the most serious of Spain's problems, and promised he would do everything "constitutionally, legally and democratically" possible to combat it.
Mr Aznar's confrontational attitude to the opposition has caused almost constant friction and frequent deadlock on many issues. It is hoped that his successor's personality and his ability for dialogue will bring smoother relations with other parties.
The appointment of Mr Rajoy has received mixed reactions. The opposition parties fear his closeness to Mr Aznar will mean a continuation of the Aznar government.
Mr Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, leader of the socialist party, says: "His only merit is to have said 'yes' to Aznar in everything."
Mr Inaki Anasagasti, the Basque Nationalist party spokesman in parliament, complained that Mr Aznar and his successor shared the same opinions in all matters. "They are like Coca Cola and Pepsi Cola - they both taste the same."
Mr Rajoy is expected to be replaced as Deputy Prime Minister and government spokesman within the next few days.