Haiti: Demonstration expected in Port-au-Prince April 26

Event

The PetroChallengers group is slated to hold a sit-in demonstration in Port-au-Prince on Friday, April 26, to call for the release of the report related to the PetroCaribe corruption scandal. Participants are expected to gather outside the Superior Court of Accounts and Administrative Disputes (CSCCA) building in the capital. 

Protests, including those related to the PetroCaribe scandal and ongoing fuel shortages, are also possible elsewhere in the capital and in other cities nationwide. A heightened security presence and widespread traffic disruptions are likely near any demonstrations. Further protests and significant transportation disruptions may take place in Port-au-Prince and throughout the country over the coming days. Clashes between security forces and protesters are likely.

Context

Violent demonstrations, known as "Operation lock down Haiti," took place nationwide in February, with protesters erecting roadblocks, burning tires, and throwing rocks at security forces. Multiple people were killed in the demonstrations, with dozens of others suffering injuries. US diplomatic authorities had ordered the departure of all of its non-emergency personnel and their family members on February 15, due to widespread and violent unrest ongoing throughout the island, notably in the capital Port-au-Prince, with other foreign missions following suit. As of April 9, the US Department of State maintains a "Level 4 - Do Not Travel" advisory due to crime and ongoing civil unrest.

Numerous demonstrations have been staged in recent months 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).