The Diplomat
Members of Podemos and representatives of Catalan pro-independence parties have criticised King Felipe VI for remaining seated, at the inauguration of Gustavo Petro as president of Colombia, during the passing of Simon Bolivar’s sword, reports Europa Press.
In a video circulating on social networks, it can be seen how the King remains seated and without applauding, unlike other authorities, when a group of soldiers carry the sword of Bolivar, whose presence at the inauguration had been demanded by Petro himself.
The Royal Household has not commented on the controversy. Diplomatic sources have pointed out that the protocolary treatment to be given to the sword was not foreseen, as it did not appear in the inauguration programme.
