Military repression against popular movement leaders fighting against the privatization of water, health, and education services

Tegucigalpa, Honduras, October 24, 2002 – Movimiento Madre Tierra- Friends of the Earth Honduras- in cooperation with a number of popular movement groups (El Bloque Popular, COHAPAZ, COPEMH, and COLPRUH) organized a protest march denouncing government plans to implement neo-liberal policies which push for the privatization of water, health, and education services.

The march took place in front of the National Congress in Tegucigalpa with the participation of over 3,000 people.

The march was encircled by the police, and subject to military and police repression (tear gas, beatings, toxic water sprays), wounding nine journalists and 11 popular movement leaders.

The following day, in efforts to disrupt future protests, Honduran president Ricardo Maduro called for a legal order which would imprison 30 popular movement leaders from the above mentioned groups.

On October 30, El Bloque Popular and other groups organized another protest march denouncing the government’s legal order, and to reaffirm their opposition to the current onslaught of neo-liberal policies which violate the socio-economic and ecological rights of the Honduran pueblo.

The threats and persecution to those fighting for justice continue.

We Call for Your Solidarity!

Honduras is Not For Sale!

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Dr. Juan Almendares: Movimiento Madre Tierra – Friends of the Earth Honduras
email: Juan_Almendares@hotmail.com
Telephone: 504- 232- 4204
Fax: 504- 235-3364