Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News
Video Credit: CEN/@bailapikachu.oficial
This is the viral moment a Chilean protester dressed as ‘Pikachu’ from Pokemon dances around in front of cops as they drench activists with a water cannon.
‘Pikachu’ was filmed taking part in protests in the central Chilean capital Santiago and one clip on Twitter went viral with 1.2 million views.
Reports said the protester beneath the Pokemon costume is Giovanna Grandon, who describes herself a proud mother, grandmother and aunt.
She told local media that she decided to join the protests in Santiago with her family members and she has been surprised that she is being held up as a symbol of the country’s unrest, caused by rising inequality.
Video Credit: CEN/@bailapikachu.oficial
Grandon said: “I see it as something like an anecdote. If I was wanted as a spokesperson for the people, I would do it because I understand the reality of the situation.
“My husband and I used to be really poor, but we have improved things with a lot of effort. However, I know many people who do not even have enough money to eat.
“If this is positive and forces our president to realise that we need real change to fix our pensions, education and health system, that is fine with me.”
Since the Chile protests began, 20 people have been killed and 1,233 have been injured.
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