About three times each year, the banner that flies over Plaza del Mar in Alicante is refreshed. The aim is to ensure the flag appears pristine, free from wear caused by time and, above all, from the battering of the wind. Traditionally, these three flag changes take place in February, around bonfires and the October 12 commemorations. This year, however, the schedule shifted, and the replacement could not occur until early November. This Friday’s gathering, organized with the support of the Amigos de la Bandera de Alicante, carried added symbolism as flowers were laid to protest an amnesty for Catalan independence politicians amid negotiations led by Pedro Sánchez in his role as head of government. (Attribution: local civic organizations, regional press reports)
selfless contribution
Through the selfless efforts of the group, the banner was removed and a new one hoisted by the Friends of the Flag. On this occasion, the public was invited to place bouquets beside the banner as a quiet gesture in light of the national political moment. The gesture has been circulating widely on social networks and in messages shared via messaging apps in recent days. The event took place without any disturbance and drew both locals and visitors to the waterfront area on Friday morning. Messages circulating online urged that, while many politicians support amnesty, the victims and opponents of separatist movements deserve recognition. The call read: lay flowers before the national flag in police stations, schools, squares, barracks, or town halls to defend constitutional coexistence and civil Spain. (Attribution: social feeds and public posts, eyewitness reports)
PNV begins transfer of Social Security Economic Regime from PSOE “within two years”
In Alicante, demonstrations occurred outside the local headquarters of the PSOE on both Wednesday and Thursday. Attendance at the second gathering was lower than at the first. General Mancha Square again became a focal point for protest, with participants voicing opposition to amnesty as details of a new agreement between parties emerged. After the Thursday arrangements linking Pedro Sánchez to the appointment process, the number of protesters dipped compared with the previous day. Vox councilors in the Alicante City Council joined attendees from other municipalities in the province. (Attribution: regional protest coverage, city council records)
Concentrations
Protests were recorded at hospital gates in Alicante and Elche on Wednesday, and in front of public buildings as well. The demonstrations progressed with a substantial police presence, but there were no major incidents. In the capital, a large turnout gathered outside the socialist headquarters, supported by a broad cross-section of Vox members and local councillors. In Elche, the turnout was notably smaller, though the event still drew significant attention from residents and bystanders alike. (Attribution: police briefings, municipal press releases)