Haiti: Opposition protests in Port-au-Prince Oct. 30 and Nov. 2

Event

Opposition groups announced on Wednesday, October 25, that a series of protests against President of Haiti Jovenel Moïse and the 2017-2018 government budget will be held on Monday, October 30, and Thursday, November 2. The demonstration on Monday will take place near the Court of First Instance in the capital city of Port-au-Prince to protest the arrest of opposition supporters. Thursday's protest will begin at Carrefour de l'aéroport and will continue to Parc Industriel and the former base of the UN's mission to Haiti to reportedly deliver a yet-to-be-announced message. Furthermore, opposition groups intend to protest in the streets of the capital on Friday, November 3, from 00:00 (local time) until 07:00. Transportation disruptions and an increased security presence are likely during both protests.

Context

Strikes and protests have broken out in Haiti in recent weeks over the adoption of the 2017-2018 budget. The budget has received strong criticism because it includes a significant pay raise and a set of perks for members of parliament while increasing taxes and fees for the rest of the population.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to strictly avoid all protests and rallies due to the possibility of violence and to adhere to advice and instructions issued by the local authorities and/or their home governments.