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Wednesday, Jun 11, 2025

PP Leader Feijóo Challenges Sánchez Amidst Major Madrid Rally

Over 100,000 Attend Feijóo's Rally as He Calls for Elections to Address National Discontent
Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of Spain's Popular Party (PP), took a significant step in his political campaign by rallying over 100,000 supporters in Madrid's Plaza de España this past Sunday.

The event underscored Feijóo's direct challenge to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, as he called for immediate elections.

'Spain is ready.

I am ready.

Now it is up to you to find the courage to call for elections,' stated Feijóo during his speech, emphasizing the urgency of democratic engagement to address the public's disillusionment with the current administration.

Feijóo positioned himself as a representative of voter frustration, claiming that the current government has led to a daily degradation of democratic values.

He voiced his intent to channel this collective discontent into a call for elections, framing the movement as one of integrity and democracy.

'No one voted for this.

Not even his own party,' he asserted, directing criticism at Sánchez, who he accused of undermining institutional integrity.

The rally came at a pivotal moment for the Popular Party, with a national congress scheduled for the coming month in Madrid.

This congress will discuss new party statutes and a political agenda that Feijóo intends to use to tackle ongoing national debates.

The event not only aimed to amplify Feijóo's appeal but also to heighten pressure on Sánchez's administration.

Feijóo noted how the assembly marked a successful demonstration of support that could bolster his party's readiness for potential early elections.

He described the atmosphere at the rally as electric and a testament to the collective desire for change.

He emphasized a need for unity among citizens who oppose the current leadership, stating, 'This is not about party names; this is about decency, democracy, and Spain.'

The rally featured prominent party figures, including Madrid's Mayor José Luis Martínez Almeida and Regional President Isabel Díaz Ayuso, who addressed the crowd ahead of Feijóo. The public responded enthusiastically, chanting his name.

Feijóo expressed gratitude towards attendees from various regions, recognizing their efforts and commitment to the cause.

His remarks emphasized that while Spain is fatigued, it remains resilient and united in seeking change.

During his speech, Feijóo articulated eleven commitments centered on democratic principles, including honest governance, an independent judiciary, and respect for media freedoms.

He emphasized that these pledges reflect the will of the Spanish people rather than just the PP. Feijóo urged attendees to engage their communities in conversations about the rally and the message of hope and alternative solutions that he represented.

As the event concluded, reactions from the Socialist Party (PSOE) attempted to downplay the gathering's significance, sparking further exchanges between the two parties.

PP members noted that the rally had garnered significant attention and participation with minimal preparation time, highlighting a rising momentum behind Feijóo's campaign.

Feijóo's criticisms of Sánchez included allegations of a lack of accountability, claiming that Sánchez's government had 'colonized institutions' and intimidated dissenters within the justice system and civil society.

Notably, Feijóo's approach to the rally sought to transcend party lines, inviting individuals from various political backgrounds to join in the call for elections and democratic accountability.

The rally encapsulated Feijóo's strategy of projecting himself as a central candidate seeking unity among disillusioned voters.

He challenged Sánchez to acknowledge the public's demand for elections and to confront the issues facing the nation openly.
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