Tens of thousands join anti-government protest in Madrid

June 08, 2025 / 9:46 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Tens of thousands gathered in Madrid's Plaza de España on Sunday, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez over corruption allegations.

Accusations and resignations

The protest, organized by the conservative Popular Party (PP), followed leaked audio implicating Socialist party member Leire Diez in a smear campaign targeting investigators looking into corruption tied to Sanchez’s inner circle. Diez denied wrongdoing and resigned.

PP calls for early elections

PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo accused the government of “mafia practices” and urged Sanchez to call early elections. The rally's slogan: "Mafia or Democracy."

Disputed turnout, government dismisses claims

The PP estimated over 100,000 attendees; official estimates were closer to 50,000. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría mocked the event’s turnout compared to a recent concert.

Divided public opinion

Protesters accused the Socialists of systemic corruption, contrasting it with past PP scandals. Despite this, polls show Sanchez remains the most popular leader, ahead of Vox’s Abascal and PP’s Feijóo.

Elections ahead

The PP is preparing for a key party congress in July, with speculation over possible early national elections. The next general election is officially set for 2027.