Current Bolivian president was harsh is the attack to those who are rejecting the road. He criticized yesterday in the coca growing zone of the Chapare, to those few leaders who under an environmental excuse, are being manipulated by right-wing politicians. “There are a few leaders who are narrow-minded. If they deny this project they are traitors, and that I cannot understand” said the leader of the coca grower and current president of Bolivia. Another critical person was Sergio Hinojosa, top leader of CONAMAQ who said his brother Fernando Quispe should have never said that they will support the TIPNIS protest march.

http://www.eldeber.com.bo/2011/2011-08-03/vernotaeconomia.php?id=110802230236

Yesterday, newspaper reports said that CONAMAQ was supporting the protest march, now they say the contrary.

This cartoon appeared August 3, 2011. Shows people discussing the road as it is mandated by Law: the public consultations, to approve or dany a road. President appears with earplugs and sharpening a chain saw that has TIPNIS encrypted.

Government officials stated yesterday in the press and TV news that there are some media who are insisting on the TIPNIS issue with the sole purpose to cause turmoil and that should end. So, chances are that if anyone has read this article and cartoon may also be questioned for doing so.

I do believe the use of the media is the only mechanism citizens have to question public officials. If the majority of the society and stakeholders (here and abroad) rightfully say no to the road that intends to cut in half a protected, area, then the government should obey.

There are no proofs, anywhere in the world that a pristine region remains as such once there is an open road to it. Even more here, current authorities could say that control will be made to avoid illegal settlers, etc. we know that is not going to happen, so why open up, I mean cut in half a region SO close to narcotrafficking activities? Sustainability and protecting are not plain words, they mean taking care of our environment for the future.