Pope Francis became the first pontiff to visit Ecuador for 30 years in early July. His visit came against the backdrop of protests by a fragmented opposition galvanised by public indignation at a planned inheritance tax reform sent to the unicameral national assembly in early June by President Rafael Correa [RA-15-06], which prompted widespread protests. In the interests of a peaceful papal visit, Correa withdrew the bill until such time as a national dialogue process could be carried out. But many opposition groups are distrustful of this dialogue process and are intent on keeping the pressure on the Correa administration, with a general strike planned for 13 August.End of preview - This article contains approximately 2025 words.
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