In a press conference from Latacunga, the temporary headquarters of Daniel Noboa’s administration in the province of Cotopaxi, the spokesperson maintained that the measure responds to the need to direct public resources toward social and productive programs.

She affirmed that although demonstrations against the increase have been reported, the Executive branch will not change its position.

The official noted that while the government remains open to dialogue, decisions regarding public policy are the sole responsibility of the government, led by Daniel Noboa.

Regarding the roadblocks reported across the country, Jaramillo emphasized that the Executive Branch has been “forceful” in its response to these actions and announced that the roadblocks will be lifted in the coming hours.

She insisted that this is not a “package deal,” as social organizations claim, as the government will provide compensation to transporters after diesel prices rose from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon last Saturday.

While the Executive Branch maintains its firm stance, protesters are keeping the Pan-American Highway closed in the town of Mejia, Pichincha province, and roadblocks remain in place in the northern province of Carchi.

jdt/jha/avr