Russia: Protest planned in Magas (Ingushetia) April 26

Event

A demonstration - denouncing a Chechnya-Ingushetia deal that would redefine internal borders - is slated to take place in the Ingush capital of Magas on Friday, April 26. According to local sources, the demonstration has not been authorized by local authorities. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated near protest sites, notably around the parliamentary building, in the coming days. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Protests against the land swap proposal have taken place intermittently since the border deal was approved by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and Ingushetian leader Yunus-Bek Yevkurov on September 26, 2018. Demonstrators in Ingushetia believe the agreement to be in favor of Chechnya at the expense of their region. Allegations of a rigged parliamentary vote on October 4, 2018, have further fueled the protests. Protesters demand a referendum on the border issue and the resignation of Yevkurov.

Chechnya and Ingushetia were part of the Chechen-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic during the Soviet Union era. Territorial tensions erupted as the regions split in 1992.

Advice

Individuals in Magas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.