Wales' First Minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth, declared there is "no turning back" on the country's journey to independence during a rally in Aberystwyth on Saturday. Addressing the crowd, ap Iorwerth stated that the "next step" for Wales must be "equality with Scotland, as a minimum."
This event marked the first time a First Minister of Wales has attended a Yes Cymru march. Organisers, Yes Cymru, estimated the march attracted between 8,000 and 9,000 people. Following the march, a rally in Castle Gardens featured speeches from ap Iorwerth, Yes Cymru chairman Rob Hughes, and Plaid Cymru MS Elwyn Vaughan.
The First Minister's attendance drew criticism from opposition parties. A Reform Cymru MS expressed disappointment, while a Welsh Conservative MS suggested ap Iorwerth should be addressing other issues. Plaid Cymru, which entered government in May, responded by stating they are focusing on priorities such as reducing NHS waiting times and improving literacy, alongside being ambitious for Wales's future.
Earlier this week, the Senedd narrowly rejected a Reform motion advocating for Wales to remain part of the United Kingdom. The vote was tied at 45 members for and 45 against, with Presiding Officer Huw Irranca-Davies casting the deciding vote against the motion.