Expatica news

Batasuna leaders join in controversial march

25 August 2006

BILBAO — Leaders of Batasuna, the banned political wing of ETA, took part in a march on Friday through Bilbao.

The controversial march was in favour of self-determination for this part of northwest Spain.

A judge from one of Spain’s most senior courts, Santiago Pedraz, decided against banning the march, despite the fact Batasuna members were expected to take part.

Batasuna is banned from holding public demonstrations because it is a proscribed organisation as it supports ETA.

But Batasuna leaders Joseba Permach, Pernando Barrena and Jone Goirizelaia were among scores who marched through the city.

Supporters carried placards in favour of jailed ETA prisoners and self-determination.

But there was no reference to Batasuna.

Since the ETA ceasefire in March, the government has urged Batasuna to renounce violence so that it can become a legal party and take part in negotiations. 

The conservative opposition Popular Party had called for the march to be banned.

[Copyright EFE with Expatica]

Subject: Spanish news