Police arrest leaders of anti-monarchy group at protest
Leaders of anti-monarchy campaign group Republic were arrested near Trafalgar Square as they arrived to protest Charles' coronation, ABC News has learned.
Hundreds of protesters have gathered in Trafalgar Square along the royal procession route as part of a demonstration organized by Republic, which advocates to replace the British monarchy with an elected head of state.
Demonstrators were seen wearing yellow and chanting loudly, "Not my king!" Some were waving big banners that read "Abolish the Monarchy." Others held homemade signs with slogans like "Spare a Palace."
Protesters told ABC News they believe the monarchy is out of date -- a democratic symbol of entrenched privilege and colonialism, as well as an unnecessary expense during the a cost of living crisis in Britain. One man said he would be happy if Charles ran for president.
The protesters are mingled with a larger crowd of people who came to watch the coronation -- an illustration of how those who strongly support the monarchy still outnumber those who strongly oppose, at least for now. A young woman waved a placard with a photo of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, alongside the words "Princess of Our Hearts."
-ABC News' Ibtissem Guenfoud and Patrick Reevell
