Deadly Protests Continue in Ecuador Amid Nationwide Strike
As the national strike initiated by Ecuador’s indigenous movement enters its twelfth day, protesters have clashed with police in various cities, leading to at least 183 documented human rights violations, reports 24brussels.
This ongoing unrest, which began on September 22, has seen road closures and demonstrations erupting as communities strive to assert their rights amid rising diesel prices. Protesters accuse the government of President Daniel Noboa of neglect for failing to address the needs of vulnerable populations. In key cities like Latacunga and Otavalo, instances of intense repression have been reported, particularly against those opposing Noboa’s policies.
The Alliance of Human Rights Organizations revealed findings indicating severe violations during the protests. Vivian Idrovo, the organization’s coordinator, noted that the military has been implicated in the majority of these abuses. Demonstrators contend that the administration is deliberately attempting to fracture their unity and undermine their organizations.
“The Armed Forces are the most involved in human rights violations during the mobilizations,” Idrovo stated, highlighting the growing tensions between the state and the protesters.
Meanwhile, leading civil figures like Martha Tuquerres, president of the Union of Indigenous Peasant Organizations of Cotacachi (Unocar), have vehemently rejected government claims that protesters are linked to terrorism or organized crime. “The international message is that we are community members, farmers, mothers, but we are not terrorists,” Tuquerres emphasized, reaffirming their commitment to safeguard their rights and territories.
The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities (Conaie) has reaffirmed its stance to continue the protests, fueled by dissatisfaction over the elimination of diesel subsidies which have aggravated living conditions for many. The organization describes these strikes as an essential response to what it views as the neoliberal and repressive policies of the Noboa administration.
Despite calls for dialogue from various institutions, including universities and the Catholic Church, Ercilia Castañeda, the vice president of Conaie, confirmed no communication with the government has occurred regarding the strike. The administration remains firm on its position, refusing negotiation and clinging to its decision to cut fuel subsidies.
In northern Imbabura province, the resistance remains unwavering, with protest actions causing significant disruptions to local commerce in towns like Ibarra, Otavalo, and Cotacachi.