Sare launches Helmuga campaign for 112 ETA prisoners

The Sare network has launched the ‘Helmuga’ campaign in Bilbao to advocate for the 112 ETA prisoners still held in custody. The campaign, which uses the slogan ‘Helmuga denak etxera’ (the goal, everyone home), aims to culminate in a major demonstration in Bilbao on January 9, 2027.

According to Sare, 112 prisoners remain incarcerated more than 15 years after the end of the group's activity. Of these, 73 are in third or second degree with the application of article 100 of the penitentiary regulations, which allows for work or training leave, while 39 have not been granted any leave. The network also notes 13 exiles and three deportees.

Sare argues that most should have been released due to time served, civil liability payments, and prison behavior. While acknowledging progress since the transfer of penitentiary competence to the Basque Country in 2021, the network denounces legal challenges from the Prosecutor's Office and the Audiencia Nacional against decisions made by Basque penitentiary administration boards.