Indigenous communities lead anti-government protests in Ecuador

2015-08-14 56

Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Ecuador to protest the President’s moves to seek a fourth term.

Indigenous demonstrators blocked roads in six of 24 provinces, while others made the 800km trek to the capital Quito calling for a general strike alongside trade unions.

#Ecuador: Earlier in Quito, major protest nearly paralyzed city. #ParoNacional pic.twitter.com/jOr5cnCSUZ EscobarEC has incredible photos.— reported.ly (reportedly) August 14, 2015

Previous supporters of Rafael Correa, the indigenous peoples say he has failed to deliver on promises of social programmes and income inequality.

They also criticised his proposed constitutional reforms which they believe would allow him to stand for reelection indefinitely.

Government supporters surrounded the presidential offices to block what Correa said could become a coup attempt as protesters clashed with police in the capital.

#Ecuador: More images from #Quito during clashes with police today during national strike.