Los acampados en Sol votan continuar con la protesta sin una fecha límite

Thousands of protesters occupying Madrid’s Puerta del Sol have voted to continue their demonstration without setting a specific end date. The decision came after an assembly held late Thursday night, during which participants discussed how to proceed with the occupation and emphasized the need to extend its impact beyond the capital. The assembly began shortly after 8:30 pm and brought together hundreds of demonstrators who have been camping at the square for the twentieth consecutive night. During the meeting, groups shared experiences and opinions on how the occupation has evolved, identifying areas for improvement. Participants were divided into smaller, randomly formed groups for ten-minute discussions before presenting their ideas to the broader group. A key outcome of the assembly was the agreement to form a political manifesto commission. This body will collect input from representatives in different neighborhoods and towns across Spain, known as "nodos", to draft a document that will serve as a roadmap for ending the occupation. According to one protester named Alejandro, the process involves both technical planning and political direction. He noted that a clear political manifesto would provide the necessary framework for a meaningful and orderly departure. Alejandro added that there is broad consensus among the protesters that the day the camp ends should be marked by a major public event. Several voices within the assembly argued that the movement should not remain confined to Sol but should expand to other districts in Madrid and throughout Spain. To achieve this, organizers called for increased political mobilization and urged attendees to vote in upcoming elections on November 29. Guillermo, another participant, highlighted the importance of collaboration between those staying in the camp and the commissions responsible for organizing activities. He stressed that ensuring rest periods for protesters is crucial for sustaining the occupation over time. The assembly did not set a definitive date for leaving the square, despite some calls for a deadline. Some participants referenced the planned strike on November 11 as a potential reference point, while others suggested earlier dates due to logistical challenges. A representative from one of the neighborhood groups expressed concern about homeless individuals who had settled in the camp but were not participating in the assembly. The debate revealed divisions within the group, with some advocating for an organized exit and others supporting indefinite continuation. Ultimately, the latter prevailed in a show of hands, though the split remained close. Organizers emphasized the need for greater involvement from all participants to maintain the protest. The occupation marks three weeks since it began, following a large demonstration demanding a decree to prevent evictions and extend existing rental contracts. The movement gained momentum after the government approved the so-called "Maricarmen decree," only for it to be rejected by Congress. President Pedro Sánchez subsequently dissolved the legislature, reapproved the decree, and plans to validate it using votes from the Permanent Deputation in the coming days. Additional elections were also announced.