Ecuadorian indigenous groups denounce threats against their president by agricultural company

Indigenous organizations in Ecuador have accused the agricultural company Terraturismo S.A. of threatening their president, Marlon Vargas. The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (Conaie) alleges that company personnel and security are inciting aggression against Vargas.

These alleged threats are occurring within the context of a territorial conflict in the Amazonian province of Napo. Conaie stated that in early June, they had already reported the alleged entry of heavy machinery into the area and a supposed eviction threat against the Tzawata-Ila Chukapi community. The organization believes these actions are part of a strategy to divide communities and escalate the conflict.

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rejects any act of threat, intimidation, violence or incitement against any person, leader, worker, authority or members of the communities involved in this conflict.

Conaie holds Terraturismo S.A. responsible for any harm to Vargas, community leaders, or members involved in defending their territory and collective rights. The statement was made during an extraordinary regional assembly of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of the Ecuadorian Amazon (Confeniae).

Terraturismo, however, rejects the accusations. The company asserts that the disputed area is private property, supported by a final court ruling. In a statement, Terraturismo categorically denied any acts of threat, intimidation, or violence, calling the claims baseless and of extreme gravity. They reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, respect, and peaceful coexistence within the framework of the rule of law.

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These claims lack foundation and constitute accusations of extreme gravity.