The National Peasant Federation’s annual march in Asunción aims to advocate for land accessibility, end evictions, and promote rural development policies. Over 12 departments are represented in the protest against the pro-government faction’s influence. The march, marking 31 years of similar rallies, calls for an Agrarian Reform Law to ensure equitable land distribution and support for small-scale food production in Paraguay.
Paraguay’s National Peasant Federation (FNC) is set to hold its annual march in Asunción, focusing on vital demands such as access to land, cessation of evictions, and rural development policies. On Wednesday, peasants from 12 out of Paraguay’s 17 departments, including San Pedro and Caaguazú, assembled at the former Metropolitan Seminary to prepare for the event.
Led by Secretary-General Marcial Gómez, the FNC’s protests target the influence of the pro-government Honor Colorado faction, headed by former president Horacio Cartes. They advocate for agrarian reform while condemning the evictions affecting peasant and indigenous communities. Gómez highlighted the necessity for promoting food production and primary industry for national development.
The march comes under the rallying cry “for land and production, against all injustices,” echoing sentiments from other demonstrations in Asunción. Farmers encountered obstacles, notably a police checkpoint in Limpio that temporarily detained a bus; it was released following a roadblock protest by the farmers.
As the march advances through central Asunción, it will culminate in a manifesto reading at Plaza de la Democracia. This event underscores the ongoing tensions with President Santiago Peña’s administration, with critiques from opposition figures like Ermo Rodríguez citing a lack of dialogue with grassroots movements.
This marks the 31st demonstration in 31 years aimed at promoting an Agrarian Reform Law as outlined in the Paraguayan Constitution. Advocates stress this measure is crucial for equitable land distribution and the support of small-scale food production, which is essential for maintaining Paraguay’s food sovereignty.
The upcoming march by Paraguay’s National Peasant Federation highlights significant agrarian issues, including calls for land access, halting evictions, and the need for rural policy reform. Led by Marcial Gómez, the protest underscores the ongoing struggle against the Honor Colorado faction’s influence in governance and the demand for an Agrarian Reform Law that aligns with constitutional rights. This event marks a historic continuous effort for agrarian justice, reflecting broader social tensions in the country.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
