In talks with the Guardian on Friday the 2, Catalan independence leader Carles Puigdemont announced his intent to carry on secession efforts through a “government in exile”-esque regime based in Belgium.

Though Puigdemont has been in a self-imposed exile from Catalonia since October 2017, when he was brought under charges of rebellion and sedition, he has not stepped back from Spanish politics. In January, Catalan separatists raised the notion of re-instating Puigdemont as regional leader whilst he continues to operate out of Belgium. The idea of a principality being governed via satellite was unprecedented— and, unsurprisingly, immediately condemned by Madrid.

Though Puigdemont has suspended his official bids for candidacy, he has publicly suggested that “Together for Catalonia” partner Jordi Sanchez, though currently serving jail time for his role in the Catalonian secession movement, take his place.

For now, Puigdemont plans to set up a new “Council of the Republic” based in Belgium, of which he will be President.

The use of the word “republic” by Puigdemont is essential, and comes aside criticism of King Felipe, whom he accused on Friday of ignoring the Spanish Constitution. In Puigdemont’s words, Felipe “excluded the millions of Catalans who voted for independence,” which is why the continuity of the secessionist movement is imperative.