Nicaragua: Opposition coalition calls for new protests April 2-3 /update 1

Event

Leaders of the National Blue and White Unity (UNAB) opposition coalition are calling for supporters to hold “express pickets” on Tuesday, April 2, and Wednesday, April 3. On Tuesday, express pickets, groups of at least 50 people, will gather at various locations between 18:00 and 19:00 (local time) before dispersing. A “national whistle protest” will be held on Wednesday, with drivers blaring horns for a designated 15-minute period. UNAB is also planning to hold a march in the capital Managua, but as of Monday, April 1, the exact date and time has not been confirmed.

Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The UNAB organized nationwide protests on March 30 to call for the release of political prisoners and the resignation of President Daniel Ortega. At least four people were wounded in Managua after riot police violently dispersed a group of protesters. Security forces detained at least ten people in Managua and Leon during the demonstrations.

Nicaragua has experienced widespread unrest since April 2018 amid calls for President Ortega to step down. The movement has led to frequent protests, deadly clashes, and other violence. Activists accuse the government and pro-government militias of committing serious human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, using weapons of war against protesters, kidnappings, arbitrary detentions, torture, excessive use of force, raiding homes without a warrant, and attacking the press.

Advice

Individuals in Nicaragua are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid any public gatherings due to the risk of violence and arrest, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home government.