Despite efforts by demonstrators to navigate alternate routes after being barred from reaching the presidential palace, violent confrontations occurred at checkpoints. The National Press Workers’ Union (SNTP) reported at least ten press workers subjected to physical attacks by PNB officers, including beatings with riot shields, pepper spray exposure, confiscations, and destruction of professional equipment such as phones and microphones. Additional personal belongings like eyeglasses were broken or stolen in the chaos. Official party militants reportedly harassed reporters further complicating coverage efforts.
These violations add to a troubling trend documented by the National College of Journalists (CNP), which registered 79 press assaults during the first quarter of 2026 alone, encompassing arbitrary detentions, coverage restrictions, and extended judicial proceedings against around 20 media professionals. The SNTP called for immediate cessation of violence against journalists and formal investigations to hold perpetrators accountable, emphasizing that state actors have an obligation to safeguard journalistic work.
Labor leaders have affirmed the success of the mobilization despite pressure and reiterated appeals for dialogue with authorities to meet constitutional labor rights. No serious injuries were officially reported by the close of the event. Freedom of expression advocates demand respect for media rights and transparency during forthcoming demonstrations. A subsequent protest is scheduled for April 16, amid ongoing government resistance to publicly address the allegations.
This article was curated and published as part of our South American energy market coverage.
