Madrid, Spain – Tens of thousands of people gathered in Madrid on Sunday to amplify the demand for snap elections made by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the Popular Party (PP). The rally in Plaza de España, organized by the PP, was a fervent protest against the current government of Pedro Sánchez. Feijóo called on Sánchez to “surrender to democracy” and let the Spanish people decide their future.
Feijóo addressed an impressive crowd, which he claimed numbered around 100,000 people in Plaza de España and surrounding streets. The government delegation, however, estimated the attendance at approximately 50,000. Regardless of the exact figures, the message was clear: the opposition is demanding a change in political direction and stands ready to take the helm in Spain.
In his fiery speech, the PP leader unequivocally demanded: “Surrender to democracy. Call elections, we want them now, because no one voted for this.” His words were repeatedly met with loud chants of “Pedro Sánchez, resign!” from the crowd. Feijóo stressed his determination to “lead the revolution of decency and freedom,” painting a picture of a government that has led the country into a critical situation.
Defending Democracy and Decency in Spain
Feijóo lambasted the Sánchez government, accusing it of tainting politics, state institutions, the separation of powers, freedom of expression, and coexistence. “What did they expect, that we would remain silent? No, Spain does not remain silent,” he shouted to the cheering crowd. He made it clear that Spain is not a “farmhouse” and Spaniards are not “servants,” but rather a “clean and decent country with honest people.”
The PP leader emphasized that the fight to restore decency in Spain is a noble cause and will not cease until the people reclaim their voice at the ballot box. He appealed to citizens to defend their rights, as these are threatened by the current government. “The country they want to appropriate is the property of Spaniards. The institutions they use are ours,” Feijóo stressed.
Feijóo concluded his speech by noting that democracy does not defend itself and cannot be delegated to those who have constantly disrespected the rule of law. Democracy belongs to all Spaniards, and it is the responsibility of citizens to protect and defend it. The rally sent a strong signal of dissatisfaction and a demand for a new democratic mandate in Spain.