SPAIN AGAINST THE CATALONIA NATION -- BBC News - Prosecutors in Spain to charge Catalonia leader Mas
Spanish prosecutors are to file criminal charges against Catalan President Artur Mas in response to a 9 November unofficial independence vote.
The non-binding vote went ahead despite fierce opposition by the Spanish government and a ruling by Spain's constitutional court.
Catalan officials say more than 80% of those who voted backed independence.
Charges will also be laid against Mr Mas's deputy, Joana Ortega, and Catalan Education Minister Irene Rigau.
The three politicians face accusations ranging from disobedience and perverting the course of justice to misuse of public funds.
When the Spanish government appealed against the autonomous north-eastern region's plans for a referendum, Spain's constitutional court suspended the vote and ordered a ban on campaigning.
Pro-independence Catalans said after the unofficial vote that there should be a proper referendum
