Subject: PERU: Indigenous struggle

EL NUEVO TOPO
Sent: May 15, 2009 10:36 PM

PERU: The Minister of the Environment, Antonio Brack Egg, accused the indigenous movement in the Amazon of an "act of rebellion or sedition".

He stated that the government would guarantee free entry on the roads in the Amazon because the government had to ensure that gas and petroleum had to be transported freely. "Otherwise, we will be in a energy crisis.". He also insisted that the indigenous peoples are not the owners of the mining or petroleum rights in the Amazon. When the post of Environmental Minister was created, it was assumed the minister would side with the environmentalists rather than mining interests.

The President of the Peruvian Congress, Velasquez Quesquen, accused the insurgency of the indigenous movement of being unconstitutional and undemocratic. He stated the Executive Branch norms were for the national interest rather than one part of the population. He did say several of the laws involving water and land rights could be amended, though he accused AIDSEP of wanting their repeal.

The Council of Ministers is planning a "dialogue" with the indigenous groups to reach "consensus." Meantime, the road Tarapoto-Yurimaguas was taken by the Ashawi, Cocoma-Cocamilla, Camdoshi, and Sigilo tribes, isolating the cities of Yuimaguas and Tarapoto. It is reported that only those in need of hospital care and tourists are allowed through. Fruits and vegetables being transported to the port of Iquitos is spoiling as the port is closed down.

EARL GILMAN