King Charles rushed to safety by the police as pr0testers storm his tour to denounce UK monarchy
On the morning of King Charles III’s coronation, protests erupted in central London, highlighting that not all in the United Kingdom were swept up in the royal celebrations. At least 25 anti-monarchy activists, including environmental protesters, were arrested as they demonstrated against the monarchy during the highly publicized event. Among those detained were six members of the anti-royalist group Republic and 19 environmental activists from Just Stop Oil.
The arrests sparked concern among free speech advocates and bystanders, especially after the London Metropolitan Police had issued a statement earlier, promising to “deal robustly” with any efforts to disrupt the coronation. This came after recent legislation was passed in the UK, limiting protests deemed troublesome by authorities.
Protesters were arrested for various reasons, including suspicion of breaching the peace, conspiracy to cause public nuisance, and possession of tools meant to cause criminal damage. The Just Stop Oil activists reportedly used lock-on devices to secure themselves to infrastructure, continuing their direct action campaigns aimed at drawing attention to climate issues.
Just Stop Oil, known for its disruptive protests, criticized the timing of the coronation, suggesting that the spectacle of royal wealth stood in stark contrast to the country’s deeper issues, like economic hardship and environmental degradation. A spokesperson for the group commented, “While everyone is focused on a billionaire in a shiny hat, the government is signing off on plans to destroy the lives of millions of ordinary people.”
Despite the grandeur of the coronation, recent polls suggest that the nation’s enthusiasm for the monarchy is not as strong as it once was. Though many royal supporters lined the streets, cheering King Charles and Queen Camilla as they rode in their golden carriage, the mood in the country was notably more apathetic compared to past royal events, particularly those involving the late Queen Elizabeth II. Charles’ popularity has not reached the levels of his mother’s, and some see the royal splendor as disconnected from the financial difficulties that millions of Britons are currently facing.
The mixed reactions to the coronation reflect broader concerns about the monarchy’s relevance in modern Britain, especially during a time of political and economic challenges. While some continue to celebrate the royal institution, others are calling for change, questioning the role of the monarchy in a society grappling with pressing social and economic issues.
