After several delays, 18 July 1936 was chosen as the date of the coup. Francisco Franco's participation was not confirmed until early July. Although events ran ahead of schedule in the Spanish Protectorate of Morocco, Mola waited until 19 July to proclaim the revolt. When Mola's brother was captured by the Republicans in Barcelona, the government threatened his life; Mola replied: "No, he knows how to die as an officer. I can neither take back my word to my followers and probably you cannot either from yours." Said brother ended up committing suicide. Mola then ordered systematic executions in captured cities for the purpose of instilling fear. He famously declared: