Who's who in Catalonia's election marked by secession fight

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Catalonia's regional election on Thursday is being fought by a motley crew of candidates, including the fugitive ex-president, the former vice president who's jailed near Madrid and a newcomer who's emerged as the homegrown response to Catalan separatism.

But the race could be decided by a minority party that opposes independence from Spain, but wants a binding referendum on the issue.

Here is a look at the leading Catalan politicians disputing the hotly-contested election:___

CARLES PUIGDEMONT

The 54-year-old former journalist has become Spain's enemy No. 1.