Noboa faced protests in Otavalo and reaffirmed that he will not give in to the strike.
President Daniel Noboa
porEditorial Team
Ecuador
During the Indigenous march, Noboa stated, 'we are not going to give in even a millimeter,' and maintained his schedule in Latacunga
During the third day of the national strike called by Conaie, President Daniel Noboa followed his agenda in Otavalo under a strong security operation. Meanwhile, in the city, an official counter-march was organized to support his presence in indigenous territory.
The president arrived in Otavalo at dawn and, visibly firm, declared: "We're not going to give in even a millimeter, nor am I going to leave here". His intervention sought to counteract calls from groups demanding his withdrawal from the Executive's temporary location.
Minister Zaida Rovira also participated in the event, leading the Government's counter-march to show institutional support in the face of indigenous demonstrations. The ruling party replied with a public presence to project control and legitimacy.
The indigenous people, mainly grouped in the Indigenous and Peasant Movement of Cotopaxi (MICC), departed from "La Estación" toward downtown Otavalo. They reported that law enforcement used armored vehicles and blockades to contain their advance.
Marcha Ecuador Rafael Negrete, MICC leader, accused the Executive of "imposing fear" and using public resources to divide communities. He also claimed that the protests only seek to highlight the deepening crisis after the elimination of the diesel subsidy.
Meanwhile, the president described the demonstrations as acts of destabilization. He stated that he was facing "those who want to walk against us" and maintained that his administration would not back down.
Tensions escalated with roadblocks on highways such as the Panamericana Norte. The mobilizations were repeated in Quito, Guayaquil, and provinces in the Sierra, but classes continued in most of the country except in some mountainous localities.
In conclusion, Noboa maintained his firm position regarding the national strike and social pressure, showing that he will not back down while following his agenda on the ground. His presence in Otavalo reaffirmed his commitment to governing from the territory amid the crisis over subsidies.
