CONAIE Declares National Strike Amid Economic Protests in Ecuador
The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) has enacted an immediate and indefinite national strike in response to the freezing of bank accounts belonging to its leaders and organizations. This action coincides with widespread protests against Decree 126, which eliminated the diesel subsidy and subsequently increased prices by 56%, reports 24brussels.
In its official statement, CONAIE condemned the banks’ justification for the account freezes as responses to “state orders,” interpreting this as an intimidation tactic aimed at stifling social protest. The organization asserts that the diesel price hike—from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon—has significantly impacted transport, production, and food costs across the nation.
During an extraordinary assembly held in Riobamba, Chimborazo province, CONAIE denounced what it described as a systematic strategy to criminalize social dissent. The organization stated, “The economic blockade of Indigenous leaders is not an isolated act but part of a strategy to criminalize social protest,” firmly rejecting any attempts at intimidation. In addition, CONAIE has called for oversight from international bodies such as the United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), citing repression and persecution.
Among the resolutions passed during the assembly, Indigenous leaders voiced their opposition to the expansion of oil and mining activities in their territories. They demanded the revocation of environmental licenses for projects in Quimsacocha and Palo Quemado and declared a “community state of emergency” to prevent security forces from entering their lands while activating community guards.
The diesel price increase has triggered protests in various provinces, leading to significant roadblocks in Carchi and disruptions on routes to Quito. A notable anti-mining demonstration in Cuenca underscored the growing public dissatisfaction with government policies. In response, President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in seven provinces, prohibiting public gatherings while protests continue unabated.
CONAIE reiterated its commitment to collective action, stating, “The struggle of the peoples continues in unity,” and urged the international community to monitor the situation for possible human rights violations.