Honduras: Nationwide opposition protests leave one person dead Jan. 20 /update 30

Event

Nationwide political opposition protests and associated clashes with security forces left at least one protester dead and several other people wounded, including four police officers, in Honduras on Saturday, January 20. The deceased person was reportedly struck by a bullet fired by security forces during a violent protest in Sabá (Colón department).

Related protests called by members of the Alliance of Opposition Against the Dictatorship erupted throughout the country beginning around 06:00 (local time); at least 12 people were arrested in opposition protests on Saturday. A notable associated demonstration broke out in Tegucigalpa in which protesters obstructed roads with stone barricades, trucks, and burning tires. Additional traffic disruptions were reported in the town of Taulabé along the CA-5 highway between Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula (Cortés department).

Further demonstrations and associated transportation disruptions are expected on January 27, when incumbent President Juan Orlando Hernández will be sworn in for a second term in a low-key ceremony in Tegucigalpa.

Context

Numerous protests denouncing the results of the November 26 presidential election have been held in Honduras in recent weeks; there have been numerous reports of deadly clashes, vandalism, looting, and roadblocks, particularly in urban areas. Salvador Nasralla, the losing candidate, has warned that civil war is possible if new elections are not held.

Visitors to the country should note that political activism by foreign nationals is prohibited under Honduran law. Foreigners who take part in demonstrations or other political activities risk detention and or/deportation.

Advice

Individuals in Honduras are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.