Nicaragua: Anti-government march planned in Managua Sep. 16 /update 45

Event

Civic groups have organized an anti-government march in Managua on Sunday, September 16, to protest the detainment of opposition activists since a political crisis broke out in the country in April. Participants are expected to gather at Hotel Las Mercedes at 10:00 (local time) and march along the Pan-American highway to La Robelo. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near the demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Context

The current period of unrest began with small student protests in Managua in mid-April and rapidly expanded. Regular protests have since led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence. Human rights groups estimate that over 300 people have been killed in relation to the protests since April, with thousands more wounded. Around 23,000 people have fled the country. Activists accuse the government and pro-government militias of committing serious human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, using weapons of war against protesters, arbitrary detentions, torture, excessive use of force, raiding homes without a warrant, and attacking the press.

Advice

Individuals in Nicaragua, particularly in Managua, are advised to closely monitor the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the risk of violence and arrest, and adhere to any advice issued by their home governments. Some countries, including the US, the UK, and France continue to advise their citizens to postpone nonessential travel to the country until further notice.