After 18 days of demonstrations and blockades throughout Ecuador, the indigenous movement and the government have finally reached an agreement, thanks to the mediation of the Ecuadorian Episcopal Conference. Among the measures obtained, a drop of 15 cents in the price of gasoline, but also better control of mining and oil activity. Halftone reactions among the demonstrators.
With our special correspondent in Quito, Alice Campaignolle
Outside the episcopal conference building, hundreds of demonstrators gathered, awaiting the results of the dialogue. An agreement was finally signed, but not without pain. We saw Leonidas Iza, the leader of Conaie, the movement of indigenous peoples, doubting, hesitating to affix his signature. But he finally accepted all the proposed measures, including a drop in the price of gasoline, less than that of 40 cents required.
It’s a victory for some, like for Dany: “ It was a very big battle. In history, it is the longest general strike of the indigenous movement. And there are results. But we also understand the economic situation of the country, we cannot continue, because the economy is in recession. »
Not enough gains, for some
For others, the disappointment is immense, Dolores has the feeling of having obtained too little. For example, nothing has been planned for the moment concerning the end of the privatization of public sector companies: “ I am outraged. You realize ? These are days and days of struggle. We are the people, we are the ones who should demand things from the government and not accept the crumbs it leaves us. »
Now is the time for all the demonstrators, whether indigenous, workers or students, to resume a normal life, after 18 days of blockages and demonstrations.