Catalonia leader called 'traitor' after delaying declaration of independence

Thousands of Catalan separatist supporters took to the streets today, after leader Carles Puigdemont postponed his declaration of independence.

Protesters gathered in front of the Catalan government building. Photo: AFP.

Thousands of students and activists took part in a protest in Barcelona on Thursday ahead of Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont's planned declaration of independence. Protesters gathered outside the regional government building and chanted secessionist slogans, with some calling Puigdemont a "traitor" for postponing the speech, AFP reported.

Spanish media reported that Mr Puigdemont plans to dissolve the Catalan parliament and call early elections, in a bid to prevent the central government from taking control of the autonomous region. Although there has been no confirmation of calling elections, two of Mr Puigdemont's close allies have resigned in protest. The Catalan leader has also postponed a speech scheduled for 1:30 p.m. local time.

Mr. Puigdemont signed a declaration of independence from Spain on October 10 in the Catalan parliament, based on the results of the referendum on October 1, in which 90% of the 2.26 million Catalans voted in favor of independence, but postponed the implementation. Madrid twice asked Puigdemont to clarify whether they had declared independence but did not receive a satisfactory answer.

Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said on October 21 that Madrid wants to dissolve the Catalan parliament and hold early elections to restore order in the region. Central government ministers will take over powers from Catalan officials. The Spanish Senate is scheduled to meet on October 27 to approve the proposal.

According to VNE