Protests Erupt in Ecuador Over Fuel Policy Changes
Protests erupted in Ecuador on Thursday following President Daniel Noboa’s decree eliminating the state diesel subsidy, resulting in a sharp price increase from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon. The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE), the largest social organization in the country, demanded the immediate release of detained protesters and criticized the government for transferring detainees to dangerous prisons, reports 24brussels.
CONAIE stated that at least ten demonstrators had been moved to prisons in Portoviejo and Machala, coinciding with a massacre in the latter facility that claimed 17 lives. The organization condemned the government’s actions, holding it accountable for criminalizing social protests and endangering the lives of community members.
According to the Interior Ministry, authorities have detained 85 individuals nationwide since the unrest began earlier this week. CONAIE accused the state of failing to ensure prison security and demanded “full respect for human rights and effective guarantees for life,” reiterating their call for the release of the detained protesters.
CONAIE president Marlon Vargas expressed solidarity with the imprisoned participants, urging all sectors of Ecuador to join the ongoing strike. “The strike continues to grow. We invite all peoples and sectors of Ecuador to join. We condemn the arrogance of the national government,” Vargas stated on social media.
The protests stem from the government’s controversial fuel policy, which has intensified frustrations among various sectors of society already grappling with economic challenges. As tensions escalate, the potential for further unrest looms large, highlighting the ongoing conflict between citizen demands and government actions in Ecuador.
In light of these developments, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for dialogue and resolution to safeguard human rights and ensure public safety.
