Pro-independence groups call a candlelit demonstration to urge leaders’ release

The pro-independence civil society organizations ANC and Òmnium have convened a candlelit demonstration today at eight pm in Barcelona to demand the release of the presidents of both organizations, Jordi Sànchez and Jordi Cuixart. Both are being held in prison since yesterday evening accused of sedition. 

The two pro-independence organizations asked those who will attend the gathering to bring a candle. Before this rally was announced, gatherings were called in front of the Spanish government delegations in Barcelona, Girona, Lleida and Tarragona. In a video, both Cuixart and Sànchez asked citizens to demonstrate with "serenity, unity and trust" to protest their imprisonment.

The initial investigation against the Catalan police chief, Sànchez, and Cuixart focused on demonstrations on September 20 and 21, when fourteen high-ranking officials of the Catalan government were arrested and people protested massively, and peacefully, in the streets. Nevertheless, the case was extended to events during the October 1 referendum, when Catalan police were accused of “flagrant inaction”.

Rallies abroad

Demonstrations to demand pro-independence leaders’ release will also be held in the main European capitals. For instance, this afternoon there will be gatherings in Berlin, London, Brussels and Budapest. 

Today, the first rallies to protest against the judge’s decision will take place, both in Catalonia and abroad.