Argentine authorities are declaring the Ancestral Mapuche Resistance (RAM) a terrorist group in light of wildfires in Patagonia linked to leader Facundo Jones-Huala. The government is filing criminal complaints against him for inciting violence and promoting armed struggle. This action underscores ongoing tensions between indigenous rights movements and state security measures.
On Tuesday, Argentine Security Minister Patricia Bullrich announced the government’s intention to classify the Ancestral Mapuche Resistance (RAM) as a terrorist organization. This declaration coincides with actions against Facundo Jones-Huala, who has openly taken responsibility for causing wildfires in Chubut province, calling for armed struggle among his followers. Jones-Huala previously claimed that his actions were directed against landowners, asserting, “Against landowners yes, but not against our environment.”
Bullrich stated, “We will declare the RAM as a terrorist organization” and emphasized that there is no tolerance for violence under President Javier Milei’s administration. Jones-Huala, who was recently jailed for attempted theft, has previously faced arson charges in Chile and has been vocal about his anti-capitalist views, suggesting that sabotage is an acceptable form of resistance.
The Chubut provincial government has linked Jones-Huala to recent fires and arson incidents, which have had devastating impacts on both property and human life. Following his comments on the need for armed struggle, criminal complaints were filed against him both by the federal government and the provincial authorities for inciting violence and public intimidation.
Jones-Huala has expressed a revolutionary ideology against the capitalist infrastructure, promoting actions that align with the Mapuche cause. Notably, he previously served time in Chile for arson and has a history of inciting his followers to take violent action against landowners. Chubut Governor Ignacio Torres has reiterated that RAM is behind the ongoing forest fires, indicating a direct connection between the organization and the destruction occurring in the region.
The situation surrounding the RAM and Facundo Jones-Huala plays into broader tensions regarding land ownership and indigenous rights in Patagonia, Argentina. Resistance movements among indigenous groups, particularly the Mapuche, have gained prominence, often framing their actions as legitimate forms of protest against perceived injustices. The government’s response illustrates a significant escalation in the authorities’ stance on these groups, viewing them through the lens of national security and terrorism.
In summary, the Argentine government is taking decisive measures against the RAM, declaring it a terrorist group amidst ongoing wildfires allegedly linked to Facundo Jones-Huala. This indicates an increasing resolve to counteract violence and protect landowners while addressing the ideological underpinnings of the Mapuche resistance. The unfolding conflict highlights the complexities surrounding indigenous rights, activism, and government policy in Argentina.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
