Cartagena to hold Ceuta solidarity rally on 2 September

Cartagena’s City Hall Square will host a solidarity rally in support of Ceuta on 2 September, coinciding with the city’s Day of Ceuta celebrations. The demonstration has been organised by the cultural associations Héroes de Cavite and Cartagena Siempre, with residents from Cartagena and other municipalities across the Region of Murcia expected to take part.

The organisers say the rally aims to show support for the people of Ceuta amid the migration situation facing the city, while also expressing concern over what they describe as its impact on public safety and essential services.

According to the organising associations, more than 70,000 migrants allegedly entered Ceuta irregularly on 30 and 31 July. They argue that the figure placed extraordinary pressure on a city with a population of around 80,000, and claim that the situation has contributed to growing insecurity and increased pressure on public and healthcare services.

Under the slogan “Ceuta does not surrender, Ceuta defends itself”, the rally is intended not only as an expression of solidarity with the people of Ceuta, but also as a demonstration of growing dissatisfaction with the way the migration situation is being managed.

The organisers have also raised concerns over the use of public funds and the response of political parties and public authorities. They argue that resources allocated to address the situation have not been managed effectively and are calling for stronger measures that, in their view, should protect residents while addressing the situation in Ceuta.

The event therefore goes beyond an expression of solidarity with the autonomous city and is also being presented as a protest against the political handling of issues that, according to the organisers, are directly affecting local communities.

The rally will take place on 2 September at Cartagena’s City Hall Square, coinciding with the Day of Ceuta.