Quito, August 18 (teleSUR-RHC)-- An Ecuadorean judge rejected on Monday a deportation request by the government against academic and writer Manuela Picq, whose immigrant status was found to be “irregular” by authorities during violent anti-government protests last Thursday.

A group of Indigenous protesters aligned with the opposition, led by Picq's partner, lawyer Carlos Perez Guartambel, marched in Quito on Sunday, in support of her case. 

Picq was taken into custody Thursday, after joining anti-government protesters attempting to enter Quito’s main square, the Plaza Grande or Independence Plaza, where thousands of government supporters had gathered. The protesters began throwing projectiles and fire bombs at police, who were blocking marchers from clashing with pro-government demonstrators.      

The following day, the Foreign Ministry decided to revoke her cultural exchange visa, which was valid until August 26th, on the grounds that she “participated in actions disturbing peace and public order during the protests of Aug. 13,” stated the judicial ruling.    
      
Picq, the partner of opposition leader Carlos Perez, had participated in roadblocks as part of the so-called “National Action” by anti-government organizations. Although she has personally denied any form of mistreatment by police officers, some of those rallying on her behalf continue to allege the police mistreated her.

Meanwhile, on Monday the head of the Conaie, an Indigenous organization aligned with the opposition, maintained that the violence committed during Thursday's protests was due to “infiltrators” from the government.   

The comments come after Conaie’s president claimed that last week’s marches would be carried out peacefully. However, images from social media and news organizations clearly show protesters, including opposition leaders affiliated with Conaie, including Governor Salvador Quishpe of Zamora province, attacking police. Perez was also recorded urging protesters to “surround” the Plaza Grande.