Ecuador’s top indigenous group, Conaie, has given a list of demands to the last two presidential candidates.
The list asks for a mining stop, no oil drilling in Yasuni Park, and better labor rights.
Conaie revealed the list after a recent meeting in Quito.
They won’t back any candidate in the runoff on October 15. Luisa González and Daniel Noboa are the candidates.
The group worries about the nation’s current state, blaming it on failed economic plans. They highlighted past protests against such plans in 2019 and 2022.
Conaie wants an inquiry into any human rights abuses during these protests.
They also call for respect for recent referendum results. These referendums said no to oil activities in Yasuni Park and the Andean Choco reserve.
The group wants all mining halted and checked. They reject the idea of selling state companies.
They call for better public healthcare and schooling.
The list also asks for stable pricing for daily goods and land ownership limits. They seek support for farmers and checks on bank practices.
The group propose special taxes on big bank profits too.
The indigenous ask for a cleanup in public security forces. They want steps taken to fight rising crime and drug issues.
Conaie says no to labor changes that harm worker rights. The group ask for better retirement benefits.
The movement also request an audit of public debt. They say big economic groups owe US$2 billion in taxes.
They mention US$88 million owed by a group tied to candidate Noboa.
Lastly, they want a pause on trade deal talks until everything is out in the open.
Background
The demands by Conaie are a strong political statement. They show the group’s sway in Ecuadorian politics.
The list cuts across many key sectors, from natural resources to labor rights. It could be a litmus test for the next president’s policies.
How each candidate responds could sway public opinion and votes.