A demonstration took place in Madrid on Saturday as the organization Sociedad Civil Española convoked protesters to voice support for the autonomous city of Ceuta while calling for the prosecution of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez by activating Article 102 of the Spanish Constitution and the demand for general elections. The march drew participation from political figures representing the Partido Popular and Vox, setting up a sharp confrontation over national sovereignty, immigration policy, and the leadership of the central government.
Protest Demands and Political Alignment
The demonstration, which commenced at 10 a.m. local time, centered around a manifesto published by Sociedad Civil Española. Rather than focusing strictly on the migration pressures experienced by Ceuta following the large-scale arrivals on July 30, the organizers broadened their platform to demand a complete overhaul of the national executive. The manifesto explicitly calls for the rejection of what it terms an “infamous government” and demands general elections.
Beyond calling for a new electoral cycle, the manifesto urges authorities to initiate formal proceedings to charge Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez with treason by activating Article 102 of the Spanish Constitution. It also demands the immediate militarization of Ceuta and Melilla to secure the borders and facilitate the expulsion of all invaders. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Partido Popular, did not participate, but the party was represented by high-ranking officials including general secretary Miguel Tellado and Senate spokesperson Alicia García. Vox leader Santiago Abascal attended the march in person.
Demonstration Atmosphere and Chants
From the opening moments of the march, participants expressed intense hostility toward the prime minister through a series of prominent slogans and chants. Demonstrators frequently chanted phrases directed at Sánchez alongside rallying cries focused on national unity, including “Ceuta does not get sold, it gets defended” and assertions regarding the territorial integrity of Spain. The presence of senior figures from both major right-of-centre and far-right parties underscored the alignment between the organizers and parliamentary opposition forces regarding their opposition to the current administration’s handling of North African border territories.
Next Steps and Official Updates
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