Huge general strike cripples Spain: Anger on streets overnight (VIDEOS)
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More than 3 million people took to the streets across the country, according to unions cited by Reuters on Thursday. The National Confederation of Tenants’ Unions estimated that up to 5 million workers took part in the strike.
While daytime demonstrations were largely peaceful, a rally in Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city, was followed by looting and clashes with police.
Clashes also erupted in Madrid, where riot police used tear gas, pepper spray, and foam projectiles to disperse protesters.
At least 115 people were arrested nationwide, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing police figures.
Left-wing parties, including Sumar, Podemos, and ERC, demanded the resignation of Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska on Thursday over alleged excessive police force during Wednesday’s protests. The minister ordered an investigation into the police actions and reportedly banned the use of tear gas at future demonstrations.
The strike disrupted transportation and commerce across Spain. Protesters blocked roads in Madrid, Valencia, and other cities, and pickets forced some businesses to close. Rail operator Renfe reported cancelations of nearly 16% of high-speed and long-distance trains and over 10% of commuter and regional services. At least 332 flights were also canceled, according to airport operator Aena.
On Thursday, the Spanish parliament approved a package of housing reforms that included rent caps, stronger eviction protections, and restrictions on property speculation. However, lawmakers rejected a separate proposal to strengthen tenants’ rights to renew their leases.
This comes less than three weeks before a snap parliamentary election scheduled for November 29. Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called the snap election after parliament rejected two housing reform decrees on October 2.
The future of the reforms remains uncertain. The conservative opposition People’s Party vowed to repeal them if it comes to power.
Speaking to RT in Madrid, Spanish political analyst Daniel Lobato accused the government of enriching major property owners and corporate interests while failing to address the housing crisis. He warned that public frustration could drive voters to the far right.