This Thursday, the small nation of Ecuador found itself on the verge of a coup. The President, Rafael Correa, passed a new law that cut the benefits of the nation's police force tremendously. The police turned the nation into a state of complete chaos as a direct consequence to this law. The riots occurred all over the country causing airport closures, highway shutdowns, and danger to everyday citizens.
During a speech to the police force, Correa was pelted with tear gas and immediately hospitalized after almost dying of asphyxiation. While being treated, rallies broke out outside the hospital between police and Rafael Correa supports. These rallies resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to seven others. The acts of violence aren't expected to finish anytime soon if this law remains in effect. Schools and government buildings have been shut down nationwide and the country could become chaotic with the absence of everyday police officers.
This video I have linked will help showcase the acts of protest taking place in Ecuador.
Wow, I didn't even know that this had grown into a serious problem. When I first heard of it, I thought it was just a quick way for the president to show the people how furious he was, but from what I read on your post and what I saw in the video, I can see this is a serious problem and that Correa is also serious about this new law. I completely disagree with this new law he passed and I don't quite understand, his reasoning for doing this. I think this law is unfair, and the police force and the people have the right to protest, but I don't think they are doing it in the appropriate manner. Why would the police force stop doing their job? This is only going to intensify the situation. I think that Correa is doing this, because in my opinion, Correa is a horrible president and he wants to follow the steps of Hugo Chaves, and take control of the country like Chaves did.
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