More than 100,000 people protested against migration in central London

The march, entitled “Unite the Kingdom,” was organized by anti-immigration activist Tommy Robinson.

Protest against migration. Photo: Jaimi Joy/Reuters

Protest against migration. Photo: Jaimi Joy/Reuters

On Saturday, more than 100,000 people gathered in central London for one of the largest demonstrations in recent British history.

Robinson described the gathering as a celebration of free speech, with participants carrying British and English flags, as well as banners with slogans such as “Send them home.” Some wore caps with the Trump campaign logo, while others brought their children along.

The police deployed more than 1,600 officers and warned against provocations. Tensions were also heightened by growing public concern about illegal immigration, which has even overshadowed economic problems in the UK. The number of asylum seekers has reached a record high.

Police said the protesters deviated from the approved route and confronted several officers with kicks, punches, and thrown bottles and flares. Nine people have been arrested so far, but police say more arrests are coming.

Around 5,000 people took part in the counter-demonstration “Stand Up to Racism.” The protests culminated after a summer marked by tensions over the accommodation of migrants. Since the beginning of the year, more than 28,000 people have crossed the English Channel.

Cultural revolution

Robinson described Saturday's protest as the beginning of a “cultural revolution” in the UK. In his opinion, it is a powerful patriotic movement that aims to restore freedom of expression and give the country back to the people. “The silent majority will no longer remain silent,” Robinson told the crowd.

Elon Musk joined his speech via video conference, calling for a change of government and criticizing the restriction of freedom of speech in the UK. Musk has publicly supported Robinson and other representatives of the right wing in the past.

Although Robinson faces several criminal charges, he remains a popular figure among his supporters. The largest anti-immigration party, Reform UK, has distanced itself from him, but its voters took part in the demonstration.

Mahmood condemned the violence

British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the violence that broke out during the demonstration in the British capital. In her opinion, the demonstrators carried out unacceptable attacks on police officers.

“Anyone who commits a crime will face the consequences,” she said. The Metropolitan Police confirmed in an official statement that several officers had been injured while trying to maintain order and prevent protesters from entering prohibited areas or clashing with counter-protesters.

The police had to respond to aggressive behavior by the crowd in several locations, with reinforcements from other regions also being deployed.

However, Robinson posted on social media, saying, “This is not the time for rioting. This is not the time for violence. This is the time to come together and stand proud for your country.”

(reuters, bbc, european conservative, mja)