Colombian indigenous groups are organizing new protests to pressure the
national government to keep its word on promises made to the Colombian
natives over the past few years.
Eluis Evelis Andrade, chairman of the National Organization of Colombia’s Indigenous (ONIC) told Caracol Radio indigenous leaders are meeting to determine whether the protests will be of national or regional character.
According to Andrade, the indigenous are considering new protests, because the government has not responded to any of their petitions and “continues to mock the indigenous communities.”
Indigenous groups from the south east of Colombia massively protested against the government in October and November, demanding protection from paramilitary groups that are attacking their communities and leaders, the return of stolen land, better access to health care and education and respect for their autonomy and culture.