Central London became the stage for vocal anti-monarchy demonstrations on Tuesday as protesters gathered to voice their opposition during King Charles III's first State Opening of Parliament. The atmosphere grew tense as both supporters and critics of the monarchy lined the procession route between Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
Chants of "Not my king" and "Abolish the monarchy" echoed through the streets as the royal procession made its way to Westminster. Police presence was notably heavy, with officers forming lines to separate protesters from royal supporters and maintain order along the route.
Multiple Arrests Amid Growing Tensions
Scotland Yard confirmed that six individuals were arrested during the protests, primarily on suspicion of public order offences. Witnesses reported seeing several people being escorted away by police near Parliament Square, where the largest concentration of protesters had gathered.
One protester, holding a sign that read "Republic now," told bystanders: "We're here to show that not everyone in this country supports the monarchy. This is supposed to be a democracy, yet we're still forced to have a head of state we didn't choose."
Organised Resistance Gains Visibility
The protest appeared to be coordinated by Republic, the leading anti-monarchy campaign group in the UK. Their supporters were visible throughout central London, particularly around Whitehall and Parliament Square, where they attempted to make their voices heard above the cheers of royal well-wishers.
Graham Smith, CEO of Republic, stated: "Today we're making it clear that the monarchy doesn't speak for everyone in modern Britain. While Charles reads out the government's agenda, we're here to demand a proper democratic alternative."
Ceremonial Tradition Meets Modern Dissent
The State Opening of Parliament represents one of the most traditional ceremonies in Britain's constitutional calendar, featuring centuries-old rituals and royal regalia. However, this year's event highlighted the growing tension between these historical traditions and contemporary calls for reform.
As the Imperial State Crown travelled separately to Westminster in its own carriage, protesters questioned the relevance and cost of such pageantry in today's economic climate. The demonstration signals potentially turbulent times ahead for the new monarch as he navigates his reign amid changing public attitudes toward the institution he represents.
