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NEARLY half a million people took to the streets of Barcelona last night to protest against Spain’s decision to strip rebel region Catalonia of its powers and rule directly from Madrid. Crowds waving separtist flags demonstrated in the region’s capital after a crisis cabinet meeting in which Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy invoked article 155 of Spain’s constitution to “restore the rule of law, coexistence, economic recovery and elections in normal circumstances”. Mr Rajoy said those elections will be held under Spanish rules “within six months” following the stripping of power of Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont. 
He said: “We are not ending Catalan autonomy but we are relieving of their duties those who have acted outside the law.” However Josep Lluis Cleries, of Mr Puigdemont’s PDeCat party, said: “It is a complete suspension of democracy, a coup d’etat against the people of Catalonia.” The move follows a referendum for independence held in Catalonia on October 1. 
He said: “We are not ending Catalan autonomy but we are relieving of their duties those who have acted outside the law.” However Josep Lluis Cleries, of Mr Puigdemont’s PDeCat party, said: “It is a complete suspension of democracy, a coup d’etat against the people of Catalonia.” The move follows a referendum for independence held in Catalonia on October 1. 
Other changes could see key ministers being relieved of their portfolios, with responsibilities such as control of Catalonia’s police carried out by Madrid. Taxation and spending may also come under central control – a significant development for a wealthy region which accounts for almost a fifth of Spain’s total GDP. And while Catalan’s parliament would not be dissolved immediately, its functions would be limited to “avoid measures contrary to the Constitution.”
Mr Puigdemont last week threatened to unilaterally declare independence if the government invoked article 155. Spain’s attorney general said such a move would see the Catalan leader charged with “rebellion”, a crime that carries a maximum 30-year sentence.
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