Peru workers launch 72-hour strike over fuel prices, power cuts

Workers and residents in Iquitos began a 72-hour strike on Wednesday, demanding government action over rising fuel prices, power cuts and illegal mining in Peru's Amazonian Loreto region.

Protesters burned objects and tyres on some roads as the three-day action got underway.

They are demanding a round table for dialogue with government representatives and the arrival of a high-level executive commission to address their concerns.

Workers Raise Cost of Living Concerns

Juan Santi, secretary of the Civil Construction organisation, said workers were observing the strike from September 16 to 18 and accused the government of neglecting Loreto.

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"We in the construction sector are observing this call, which has been set in full for Wednesday 16, Thursday 17 and Friday 18; we reject this government that has turned its back on the people of Loreto. Here in the city of Iquitos, an extremely expensive city, as you well know fuel is high; we are paying more than 20 soles (USD $5.96) for fuel, and gas, 80 soles (USD $23.82) for gas. And not only that; the issue of mining exploitation is also contaminating my brothers and sisters who are indigenous," Santi said.

Protesters Demand Fujimori’s Presence

Demonstrators also called for President Keiko Fujimori to travel to Loreto, criticising her for not visiting the region to hear their concerns.

"Let her [President Keiko Fujimori] come and fix the situation here in Peru, here in Loreto, let her come. She does not deliver; just as she came during the campaign, she should come here in person to sort out this problem. She should come the way she came to seek votes," said one of the protesters.

Claudia Pinedo, secretary of the General Confederation of Workers of Peru (CGTP), also called for government representatives to travel to Loreto and open talks with protesters.

"I do not understand why now she [Keiko Fujimori] cannot come, does not want to come, does not even want to send a minister, a couple of ministers. Yet nothing. They say 'we do not act under pressure'," Pinedo said.

Loreto's organisations agreed to hold the strike on September 16, 17 and 18 after previously considering a 48-hour stoppage.

Union leaders are demanding government action on fuel prices, electricity and illegal mining, as well as a commission to negotiate possible solutions.