SXMElections.com

Victorious Catalan separatists claim independence mandate

BARCELONA--Separatists on Sunday won a clear majority of seats in Catalonia's parliament in an election that sets the region on a collision course with Spain's central government over independence.
  "Catalans have voted yes to independence," acting regional government head Artur Mas told supporters, with secessionist parties securing 72 out of 135 seats in the powerful region of 7.5 million people that includes Barcelona.
  The strong pro-independence showing dealt a blow to Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, three months before a national election Read more

Celta stun Barcelona 4-1, Real's Benzema hits double to sink Bilbao

BARCELONA-- A Karim Benzema brace gave Real Madrid a 2-1 victory at Athletic Bilbao and lifted them to the top of La Liga on goal difference ahead of Celta Vigo, who thrashed Barcelona 4-1 on Wednesday with Iago Aspas hitting a double.
  The Frenchman took full advantage of a poor backpass by Mikel San Jose and fired home to put Real ahead after 19 minutes.
  Bilbao showed typical fighting spirit and a fine diving header from Sabin Merino ended Real keeper Keylor Navas' record unbeaten start to the season after 67 minutes, but they were only level for three minutes.
  Benzema, a threat all night to the Athletic rearguard, was quickest to an Isco cross and knocked it in from close range.
  Real and Celta now have 13 points after five games while Barcelona are a point behind.
  After disappointing spells at Liverpool and Sevilla, Aspas is back to his best this season having returned to Celta and struck clinical finishes in either half against a Barcelona side who were far from their normal dominant selves.
  Nolito, a former Barcelona youth player, fired his fifth goal in as many games to put Celta ahead after 25 minutes with a pinpoint curling drive from the left of the area Read more

Dutch boycott Statia, D66 questions move

THE HAGUE/STATIA--The Dutch Government is boycotting working visits to St. Eustatius since final instruction was given to the island’s government. Member of the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament Wassila Hachchi of the Democratic Party D66 is questioning the boycott.

Statia Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs Reginald Zaandam is fiercely objecting the stance by The Hague Read more