Hundreds of thousands gathered in the streets of Barcelona on Sunday, demanding that Catalonia remain a part of Spain. Many also called for Catalan President Carles Puigdemont to be jailed for his separatist push.

The central Spanish government in Madrid has imposed direct rule over Catalonia, dismissing Puigdemont and dissolving the region’s parliament, and threatened to charge the now separatist leaders.

CGTN’s Richard Bestic reports from Barcelona.

Madrid prepares for first full day in control of separatist Catalonia

Officials with the Spanish central government in Madrid are preparing for their first full day in control of Catalonia. Separatist leaders in Barcelona declared independence on Friday, prompting Madrid to dissolve the regional parliament while also removing Catalan President Carles Puigdemont. Meanwhile, a Belgian government minister is saying Puigdemont may be eligible for asylum. CGTN’s Al Goodman reports from Madrid.

Thomas Harrington discusses what to expect next from Catalonia

Thomas Harrington is a professor at Trinity College. He teaches Spanish Cultural History, including Contemporary Catalonia. CGTN’s Wang Guan asked him what to expect next from Catalonia.

Catalonia braces for Madrid takeover amidst ongoing tensions

Catalonia’s independence bid may now be decided by the regional parliament and the Spanish Senate, after Catalan’s President declined to call a new vote. The Senate could soon set in mo…