Anti-monarchy protesters stage silent demonstration outside Cardiff as King arrives

Protesters await the arrival of King Charles on September 16, 2022 in Cardiff, Wales (Photo: Chris Jackson via Getty Images)

Another group of anti-monarchy protesters appeared on Friday, this time in Cardiff.

King Charles III visited the Welsh capital for the first time as the new monarch, having previously been the longest-serving Prince of Wales in the history of the United Kingdom.

His son and heir, Prince Williamwas confirmed as the new Prince of Wales last Friday. However, some in Wales believe the nickname should be abolished – and perhaps even the monarchy as a whole.

Campaigners gathered outside Cardiff Castle as they awaited the new King Friday, and held a silent protest, holding placards reading: “Citizen not subject,” “Abolish the monarchy” and “End the title Prince of Wales.”

The title of Prince of Wales is a particular source of discord in the nation because, ever since England conquered Wales, it has been bestowed on an English prince.

Before the 12th century, this title was reserved for Welsh characters.

A petition calling for the title’s removal now has more than 25,000 signatures.

Campaigners have called on the Welsh Government and Cardiff City Council to help protect their democratic right to protest, as police across the country cracked down on and arrested (sometimes charged) protesters campaigning against the monarchy this week.

Bethan Sayed, a campaigner and former Senedd MP for Plaid Cymru, said “many of us felt compelled to react” after learning that William would be the new Prince of Wales.

“People tell us that this is not the time to discuss this issue, however, when the monarchy passes from the incumbent to a new king, this is exactly the time to discuss this issue.

“It’s about fairness, equality and the Wales we want to shape for future generations.”

The pro-independence political party Plaid Cymru believes an independent Wales should vote on whether or not to keep a member of the royal family as head of state.

She added: “So we have no intention of creating problems, but we want our rights to express and defend a different opinion to be respected.

“Because it is completely legitimate if we truly consider ourselves a democracy.”

The arrests of anti-monarchy protesters have sparked widespread concern, with critics questioning the implications of the arrests for freedom of expression in the UK.

Friday’s protesters included republicans, trade unions and Welsh independence organisations, all campaigning under the banner of Real Democracy Now.

This article was originally published on HuffPost UK and has been updated.

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