Colombia: Colombia Rural Strike Stands Strong as Police Repression Mounts [Photos]

Jun 9, 2016 | teleSUR
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Tens of thousands of peasants, rural workers, and Indigenous people in Colombia have been fighting against massive land inequality and privatization decrees, as well as the right to participate in the ongoing Colombian peace talks, under the banner of the Minga (Strike) of Resistance for Life, Territory, Dignity, Peace, and the Implementation of the Agreements. However, this has been met by massive brutality at the hands of the Colombian riot police known as ESMAD who have attempted to crush the strikers with lethal force. Clashes have already left three protesters dead, as well as over 100 jailed and 202 injured. Lawmakers are now close to approving a controversial legislation that would allow the police to enter private residences without a judicial warrant, carry out arbitrary arrests and criminalize protesters occupying public space. Despite the martyrdom of the three killed protesters and the looming threat of increased repression, the fighting campesinos continue to struggle for their social rights, land, and basic dignity.