By NNN-Prensa Latina
Lima : Tension has returned to the Peruvian northern Andes, after a dialogue failed between the government and leaders of rural communities opposed to mining exploitation in their lands.
Leaders of the Carmen de la Frontera, Ayabaca and Pacaipama municipalities announced they will begin a six-day protest march Monday to Piura, capital of the region with the same name.
The rural leaders blamed Prime Minister Jorge del Castillo for the failure of the talks yesterday in Ayabaca, for leaving the meeting because farm leaders demanded the debates include recognition of the popular rejection of Majaz transnational’s presence in the area, as corroborated in a poll on September 16.
Paicapampa Mayor Juan Manuel Garcia said Del Castillo’s withdrawal was a gesture of contempt and intolerance toward authorities and farmers in the affected zone, and noted they are ready to talk.