822.00/1679: Telegram

The Ambassador in Ecuador ( Scotten ) to the Secretary of State

530. A fairly orderly parade of approximately 10,000 people came to the Chancery this morning, the leaders inquired whether the President was in refuge. I personally explained that he was not here, nor in my residence, nor any other refugees. The demonstration passed on and no incident occurred. It was noteworthy that among the usual shouts against the Arroyo regime there were interspersed derogatory [Page 1038] references to the Rio Protocol and the recent boundary settlement, also to the alleged loss of territory in the Oriente.9 The large crowds of people in the center of the city are in an uncertain humor and they are searching automobiles, even those carrying diplomatic license plates, for possible refugees. The temper of the crowd against Arroyo personally seems to be increasing momentarily, many of the shouts demand his head. A serious incident may occur at the Colombian Embassy if the mobs discover he is there.

The Diplomatic Corps met at the Nunciatura a few moments ago; most of the Chiefs of Mission seemed apprehensive for the safety of their respective Missions, several of whom harbor political refugees. They authorized the Nuncio to approach the Junta of the Alianza and request security for the different Legations and Embassies.

Velasco Ibarra himself appears to be proceeding by automobile from the frontier and may arrive this evening. His presence should have a quieting effect upon the mobs. The present report is that he will not himself assume the Presidency but the power will remain in the Junta as at present constituted and elections will be called at which Velasco Ibarra will be elected.

Apparently some misunderstanding exists between the Junta in Quito and the Junta in charge of affairs in Guayaquil and it is too early to predict whether this misunderstanding will be smoothed out or not.

The general strike ended at noon today.

Telegraphic communication has been reestablished with Guayaquil. Panagra will probably recommence its normal operations tomorrow.

Scotten
  1. For text of the Rio Protocol, see Department of State Executive Agreement Series No. 288, or 56 Stat. (pt. 2) 1818. See also bracketed note, ante, p. 213.