Protesters Blocked Mexico’s President in His SUV for 2 Hours
Protesting Teachers Block Mexico President in His SUV in Chiapas
(Bloomberg) -- A group of protesters in southern Mexico blockaded the SUV of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador for about two hours on Friday, preventing him from delivering his daily press briefing in person.
Protesters, who identified as members of the CNTE teachers union in the state of Chiapas, were live streaming their interaction with the president. Lopez Obrador, riding in the front passenger seat while more than 100 people surrounded the SUV, spoke via a separate live-stream shown at his daily briefing, calling the protest improper.
“We’ll remain here for as long as needed,” he said. “I ask people not to be impatient, and not to worry about anything. My conscience is clear. I won’t bow to threats by anyone.”
Teachers were demanding better labor conditions, the reinstatement of workers who had been laid-off and safer conditions for returning to classrooms. The president has advocated for a nationwide return to in-person classes, though many educators and parents have been opposed.
Chiapas Governor Rutilio Escandon filled in for the president during the Friday press briefing. Protesters eventually let the president pass, but the briefing had concluded by then.
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