Despite the Minister of the Interior’s warnings and threats of sanctions, over a thousand people gathered at the Cívitas Metropolitano stadium on Saturday in support of the National Platform in Defense of Transportation. Together with the 6F Platform, they organized a vote to decide whether to begin an indefinite strike in the primary sector. The overwhelming result in favor of the strike has now initiated an “indefinite national strike” in support of ongoing mobilizations in the agricultural industry.
Manuel Hernández, president of the transport platform, emphasized that the strike will continue until there are satisfactory solutions for the transport, agriculture, and livestock sectors. He urged those who were unable to attend the gathering to respect the decision made by those present. Hernández also underscored the importance of keeping Spain self-sufficient and not relying heavily on imported products.
The outcome of the vote was met energetically by the participants, who expressed their discontent with President Pedro Sánchez and Minister of Transport Óscar Puente, chanting derogatory slogans. Insults were also directed towards Minister of the Interior Fernando Grande-Marlaska for his handling of law enforcement forces during the protests.
The situation escalated when a group of protesters attempted to cut off the M-40 highway, but were met with a large police presence. Some clashes ensued, resulting in injuries and criticism of the police for their perceived excessive actions.
Some participants expressed their frustration with the agricultural sector’s treatment and perceived neglect. They discussed the challenges of working in the industry, including early mornings and bureaucratic hurdles.
Representatives of the 6F Platform and other attendees emphasized the need for unity and a strong front to fight for their rights. Banners and slogans highlighted the importance of their work in providing food and the potential consequences of neglecting the agricultural sector.
The transport platform’s decision to initiate the strike does not have the support of the National Committee for the Transport of Goods by Road (CNTC), the sector’s representative body in negotiations with the government.
As the fifth day of agrarian protests concluded, there were no significant incidents or road closures reported in Spain. The government’s delegation in Madrid confirmed the absence of notable disruptions due to agricultural mobilizations.