Thousands have taken part in one of the largest pro-unity marches seen in Barcelona since the Catalonia crisis began. And the message by some was “send Puigdemont to jail” !
Madrid is said to be considering doing just that with reports that it is preparing to charge the region’s sacked leader with rebellion.
Later on there were some clashes with what appears to have been far-right elements but on the whole the rally by Catalonia’s so-called silent majority was largely peaceful.
Spanish nationalists attack @elnacionalcatEN journalists during march against #Catalonia's independence in Barcelona. Open your eyes, Europe
Political parties opposing a split by Catalonia from Spain are said to have a slight lead in opinion polls published on Sunday.
Out reporter in Barcelona Francisco Fuentes said the huge march in favour of the unity of Spain marks the beginning of an intense week. “On the political we will see how the Catalan pro- independence parties will react to the Madrid takeover and on the judicial, there are the first steps being taken against those responsible for the unilateral declaration of independence.”
Carles Puigdemont is refusing to be sacked and says he will go to work as usual today. he is also calling for peacefull opposion to Madrid’s direct rule which is imposed on Friday (Oct 27)
Puigdemont had been expected to attend a football match in Girona which saw the local side beat Real Madrid, who Spain’s Prime Minister supports.
Although not making an appearance he took to Twitter to say “Girona’s victory against one of the greatest team in the world was an symbol for many other situations”.
Spain’s central government has said it will maintain direct rule of Catalonia until the region elects a new parliament on Dec 21.
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Source: AfricaNews