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Wales’ First Minister Backs Independence at Yes Cymru Rally
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Independence Rally and First Minister’s Attendance
The first minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth, attended a Yes Cymru rally in Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, declaring that Wales is on an irreversible path toward independence. Organisers estimated the crowd numbered between 8,000 and 9,000 participants, marking the first occasion a sitting first minister joined a pro-independence march.
Background to the Welsh Independence Movement
Since 2019, a series of independence marches have taken place across Welsh cities—including Cardiff, Swansea, Wrexham, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhyl and Barry—drawing thousands of supporters. The rallies have been coordinated by the campaign group Yes Cymru, which seeks a referendum on Welsh self-determination. The movement has gained momentum as public sentiment on devolution and national identity has shifted in recent years.
Key Figures
- Rhun ap Iorwerth – First Minister of Wales, member of Plaid Cymru, now publicly endorsing the independence agenda.
- Reform Cymru MS – Member of the Senedd from the pro-independence party Reform Cymru, expressed disappointment at the first minister’s decision to attend the rally.
- Welsh Conservative MS – Member of the Senedd from the Welsh Conservative Party, argued the first minister should focus on governance rather than campaigning.
Official Statements & Responses
Rhun ap Iorwerth’s remarks framed independence as a forward-moving journey with no possibility of reversal. The statement was presented as a policy stance rather than a campaign promise, emphasizing the desire for parity with Scotland.