Nicaragua: Rallies take place in Managua on April 6 despite postponed march /update 3

Event

The National Blue and White Unity (UNAB) opposition coalition postponed demonstrations in Managua initially planned for Saturday, April 6, after police banned the gatherings. Despite the ban, hundreds of people staged smaller so-called "express" protests throughout the capital; reports of significant disruptions were not immediately available. 

UNAB has threatened to stage further anti-government demonstrations in the coming days and weeks. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected around all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

UNAB has organized renewed demonstrations in recent weeks to call for the release of political prisoners and the resignation of President Daniel Ortega.

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 Managua 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 governments.