Else Beekman
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Madrid’s Plaza de Castilla on October 20th, calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and demanding immediate general elections.
The protest, organised by the Plataforma por la España Constitucional and supported by the political parties PP (Partido Popular) and Vox, drew crowds chanting “Pedro Sánchez, resign!” in opposition to the current government.
Protest against government policies and corruption allegations
The demonstration, held under the slogan “For unity, dignity, law, and freedom. General elections now!” was attended by around 25,000 people, according to government estimates, though organisers claimed the turnout was closer to 400,000. The protest stemmed from dissatisfaction with Sánchez’s leadership, particularly over the ‘Koldo case’, involving allegations of corruption within the government, and policies perceived to undermine territorial equality.
A massive Spanish flag, along with European Union and Cross of Burgundy flags, was displayed prominently during the event. Protesters also carried banners with slogans such as “Guilty” and “It’s not a party, it’s a mafia,” alongside images of Sánchez and his ministers depicted behind bars.
One of the key figures speaking at the protest was former National Court prosecutor Ignacio Gordillo, who criticised recent government policies, including a law benefiting former ETA prisoners. Gordillo referred to the day as “very sad” for those who had fought for justice against terrorism, especially for the victims of ETA violence.
PP and Vox call for elections
Prominent figures from both PP and Vox attended the rally. Carmen Fúnez, Deputy Secretary of Organisation for the PP, described the government’s management as “disastrous” and argued that it was time to “give a voice to democracy and the Spanish people.” She emphasised that “change is already underway” and called for the resignation of the Attorney General, following his recent legal troubles.
Vox leader Santiago Abascal also took the stage, calling for the full resignation of the Sánchez government, accusing them of widespread corruption. Abascal urged the PP to avoid collaboration with Sánchez and did not rule out supporting a vote of no confidence, as long as it led to a call for new elections.
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