Paraguay’s National Peasant Federation (FNC) is preparing for its annual march to Asunción to demand land access, an end to evictions, and support for rural development. Led by Marcial Gómez, protesters are addressing land issues amidst political tensions with the government and emphasizing the need for agrarian reform. This year’s march marks 31 years of ongoing advocacy for equitable land distribution.
The National Peasant Federation (FNC) of Paraguay organized its annual march to Asunción, scheduled for Thursday, advocating for land access, halting evictions, and promoting rural development policies. Protesters, representing 12 out of 17 departments in Paraguay, convened at the former Metropolitan Seminary to prepare for this significant demonstration.
Led by Secretary-General Marcial Gómez, the FNC opposes the government’s land policies and the pervasive influence of the Honor Colorado faction, headed by former President Horacio Cartes. They seek agrarian reform and express concerns regarding the eviction of peasant and indigenous populations. Gómez emphasized the necessity of fostering national development through enhanced food production and industrial growth.
The protesters marched under the motto “for land and production, against all injustices,” coinciding with additional protests by workers, retirees, and opposition parties in Asunción. However, their journey encountered challenges, such as a police checkpoint in Limpio where one bus was stopped, but the group successfully advocated for their release by blocking the road.
The procession will conclude in central Asunción with the reading of a manifesto at Plaza de la Democracia. This event underscores the persistent friction with President Santiago Peña’s administration, as critics, including Ermo Rodríguez from the Paraguay Pyahura Party, have highlighted inadequate dialogue between the government and grassroots groups.
This year’s march marks the 31st occurrence over the past three decades, aiming to ensure the implementation of an Agrarian Reform Law as guaranteed by the national Constitution. This reform is essential for equitable land distribution and to bolster small-scale food production, integral to ensuring Paraguay’s food sovereignty.
The National Peasant Federation is set to demonstrate in Asunción to address land access and agrarian reform, highlighting the ongoing issues faced by peasant and indigenous communities. Led by Secretary-General Marcial Gómez, the FNC’s protest reflects both local frustrations with government policies and longstanding demands for equitable land distribution, in alignment with constitutional mandates. As the movement gains momentum, it encapsulates essential dialogues surrounding rural development and national food sovereignty.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
