Haiti: Gunfire reported in Port-au-Prince as protests continue November 20 /update 4

Event

Unrest rattled Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, November 20, as a general strike continued in the capital for a second day and as further anti-corruption protests were reported across Haiti. In Port-au-Prince, shops, public institutions, and schools remained closed on Tuesday, and public transportation was suspended as protesters clashed with security forces and erected barricades on roads. Gunfire, burning tires, and rock throwing were reported in the capital. Clashes between protesters and authorities were also notably reported in Cap-Haïtien and Limbé.

Civil society organizations and political parties have called for further anti-corruption demonstrations. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be expected near protest sites. Further clashes between protesters and authorities cannot be ruled out.

Context

Violent demonstrations took place across Haiti on November 18-19, including in Port-au-Prince, Cap-Haïtien, Pétion-Ville, Lalue, Croix-des-Bouquets, Cayes, Chalon, and Malpasse. An estimated 11 people have been killed in the protests, with dozens of others wounded or arrested. Most embassies in Port-au-Prince have restricted personnel movements since November 17.

Protesters staged multiple demonstrations in October to call for greater government transparency, after several public officials, including President Jovenel Moïse, were implicated in a scandal related to the alleged misuse of PetroCaribe funds.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to keep abreast of 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 (e.g. travel restrictions). Be prepared to shelter in place in the event of prolonged civil unrest (e.g. stockpile supplies of preserved foods and fresh water).