07 Sep 2018 | 07:57 PM UTC
Haiti: Anti-corruption protests planned in several cities September 7-9 /update 3
Anti-corruption protests planned in several cities, including Port-au-Prince, September 7-9; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions expected near demonstration sites
Event
Anti-corruption protesters have reportedly planned to stage demonstrations in several Haitian cities from Friday, September 7, through Sunday, September 9. Specifically, protests have been planned in Delmas 18 (Port-au-Prince), Aquin (Sud department), Hinche (Centre department), Léogâne (Ouest department), and Port-de-Paix (Nord-Ouest department) to denounce perceived corruption and the mishandling of public money. According to local sources, the protest in Port-de-Paix was ongoing as of Friday afternoon (local time), with no associated violence immediately reported.
Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected near the demonstration sites. Further related protests are possible in the coming days. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
Thousands of protesters reportedly marched from Place Aéroport (intersection of Route de Delmas and Boulevard Toussaint Louverture) to Champ de Mars in a related protest in Port-au-Prince on September 2.
Numerous demonstrations have been held in recent months to demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse, the liberation of people arrested during violent unrest that broke out July 6-8, and the arrest of individuals implicated in the PetroCaribe corruption scandal.
Advice
Individuals in Port-au-Prince and other abovementioned areas are advised to monitor the situation, strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
