Thousands of Peruvian indigenous protesters have agreed to temporarily lift their blockades of oil, gas and hydroelectric infrastructure after Congress agreed to hold a vote on repealing a law that would make it easier for energy, mining and other corporate interests to purchase indigenous land.

The blockades were initiated at a time when Peru is already facing severe energy shortages, thus heightening pressure on the government to make a deal.

The truce is scheduled to hold through tomorrow, when the Peruvian Legislature will hold an official vote on whether to repeal a law that was initially forced through by presidential decree, under powers given to President Alan Garcia in order to bring Peru into compliance with the US-Peru Free Trade Agreement. The law allows the sale of collective indigenous land with only a majority vote by residents, as opposed to the former two-thirds.

An estimated 12,000 protesters from 65 indigenous nations have mobilized against the law since August 9. The president responded by declaring martial law, suspending free speech and threatening to send in the military. Over the weekend, clashes between protesters and police escalated, resulting in injuries.

Prior coverage:

Indigenous Peruvians Seize Energy Infrastructure (August 12)

Oil Pipeline Shut Down by Ongoing Peru Protests (August 17)

Peru Declares Martial Law Over Indigenous Protests (August 18)