In a startling episode on Tuesday, Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa narrowly escaped injury when his motorcade came under attack by a crowd hurling rocks along one of Quito's main avenues. A top minister reported that shots also rang out, adding to the chaos. 😱
Authorities quickly detained five people in connection with the incident, as tensions flare across the country. These protests erupted after President Noboa decided to cut the long-standing diesel subsidy, a move aimed at reducing government spending but which has hit truckers, farmers and low-income families hard.
Here's what you need to know:
- Rock-throwing crowd targeted the presidential convoy, forcing vehicles to take evasive action.
- Claims of gunfire raised alarms, though no serious injuries were reported.
- Five protesters detained pending investigation.
- Subsidy removal sparked nationwide demonstrations by transport and agricultural sectors.
Looking ahead, analysts say the Noboa administration faces a delicate balancing act between fiscal reform and social stability. Will the president find common ground with protesters, or will the unrest grow? Stay tuned! 🔥
Reference(s):
Ecuador president's motorcade hit by crowd throwing rocks, 5 detained
cgtn.com
