Tensions mount in Ecuador after austerity measures

Rafael Correa during his inaugural speech as p...Image via Wikipedia
BBC:

A state of emergency has been declared in Ecuador after President Rafael Correa accused the opposition and security forces of a coup attempt.

Mr Correa was taken to hospital after being hit by tear gas at a protest. Later reports spoke of fresh violence outside as he was being treated.

Troops also took over Quito's airport, forcing it to close for hours. Unrest has been reported across the country.

The protesters are angry at a new law that cuts benefits for public servants.

In other developments on Thursday:

Police officers erect road blocks in Quito, Guayaquil and Cuenca. Several government buildings are occupied
Looting is reported in the capital and Guayaquil. Banks are robbed, while schools and businesses close due to the lack of security
The head of the armed forces declares its loyalty to the president
Venezuela's president claims Mr Correa is "in danger of being killed"
Peru and Colombia close their borders with Ecuador in solidarity.

The dramatic events began on Thursday morning, when members of the armed forces and police angry at the austerity measures occupied several barracks and set up road blocks across the country to demand the austerity measures be abandoned by the government.

Television stations showed images of police setting tyres on fire in the streets of Quito, Guayaquil and other cities. The National Assembly building was also occupied.

In a speech to soldiers from Quito's main barracks, President Correa said: "If you want to kill the president, here he is. Kill him, if you want to. Kill him if you are brave enough.

"If you want to seize the barracks, if you want to leave citizens undefended, if you want to betray the mission of the police force, go ahead. But this government will do what has to be done. This president will not take a step back."

However, Mr Correa was forced to flee the barracks wearing a gas mask shortly afterwards when tear gas was fired by the protesters.

...
That was probably not the smartest thing he could have said under the circumstances. Saying he would not take a step back shortly before fleeing the scene suggest his bluff was called. Correa's problem is that he moved the country toward socialism which makes him management in any labor dispute. He has to take personal responsibility for the failure of socialism to deliver on the promises he made to those dependent on the government now.

The Telegraph reports that Hugo Chavez of Venezuela has said Correa's life is in danger. While that is possible, if these guys had really meant to kill him they would not have wasted a gas canister on him. If they had wanted to kill him today, he would be dead by now. But if he does not act with more wisdom in the future his challenge to kill him may be pursued. Perhaps he needs to go consult with that genius in Caracas.
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