Thousands rally in Madrid against Catalan-Spanish dialogue

Thousands of people rallied in Madrid against the Spanish government efforts to dialogue with Catalan pro-independence parties. The major demonstration was called by PP, Ciudadanos, and Vox to defend the “unity of Spain” and call for a fresh election. Several far-right groups attended the concentration.

Around 45,000 people demonstrated this Sunday according to the Spanish government, while PP and Ciutadans said 200,000 people attended the protest against central government's policy on Catalonia. 

In Madrid's Colón Square, demonstrators waved Spanish and European flags and carried banners calling for direct rule in Catalonia and jail sentences for independence leaders being prosecuted.

President Pedro Sánchez faces increased calls for resignation following an agreement with the Catalan government to have a non-partisan observer attend and coordinate meetings between political parties.

The Manifesto

Three journalists have read the manifesto that denounced the “treason and humiliation” of the socialist government for the “constant unbearable concessions” to Catalonia. For example, they complained about Catalan President Quim Torra going to Madrid “with a yellow ribbon,” jailed leaders transferred to Catalan prisons, and Sánchez's proposal to have a non-partisan observer in Catalan party meetings.

The "Spanish government is not entitled to negotiate national sovereignty", said the manifesto.