Ecuador’s president has declared a state of emergency in three provinces over demonstrations. Different population groups are demanding that fuel prices go down. A state of emergency is also in effect in the capital Quito, President Guillermo Lasso said.
The anti-government demonstrations have turned into violent clashes between activists and riot police on several occasions. Since the protests started last Monday, at least 43 people have been injured and 36 have been arrested.
Ecuador faces rising inflation rates, high unemployment and poverty, which has increased during the coronavirus pandemic. Since 2020, fuel prices have risen sharply, almost doubling in the case of diesel.
Several indigenous groups of Ecuadorians started the actions, and students, workers and others have now joined. The protesters have blocked major highways, including roads to and around Quito, among other things. The activists have said they will continue until their demands are met.
State of emergency gives president more powers
Conaie, an influential alliance of indigenous groups that called for the protest, is demanding, among other things, that the government cut fuel prices. President Lasso should also intervene to keep food affordable. Talks about this with the government have so far not resulted in a breakthrough.
By declaring a state of emergency, Lasso gains more powers to, for example, call in the army and impose a curfew. To calm the mood, he announced on Friday, among other things, that monthly benefits for the poorest people in Ecuador will increase slightly.