09 Apr 2019 | 07:16 AM UTC
Venezuela: Nationwide demonstrations planned for April 10 /update 13
Opposition leaders and pro-government groups call for nationwide demonstrations on April 10; heightened security measures and other disruptions expected
Event
Opposition leader Juan Guaidó is calling for supporters to stage anti-government protests throughout Venezuela on Wednesday, April 10. Demonstrations are expected to be held in major urban areas nationwide, particularly in the capital Caracas; however, specific details regarding the location and time of the rallies have not been released as of Monday, April 8.
Pro-government organizations are also calling for counter-demonstration to start on Wednesday. The United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) is planning to hold rallies in support of President Nicolás Maduro from Wednesday through Saturday, April 13, to resist “imperialist attacks” on the government. Heightened security measures and transportation and commercial disruptions are expected around all demonstration sites. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
A massive opposition protest was held in Caracas on Saturday, April 6, where Guaidó announced a renewed campaign to remove Maduro from office under the slogan # OperaciónLibertad. The rally on April 6 was held after National Constituent Assembly revoked his parliamentary immunity on April 2.
Venezuela is experiencing an ongoing crisis spurred by President Nicolás Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10 following last year's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state. Guaidó has reportedly coordinated several deliveries of humanitarian aid from neighboring states that have been blocked by the Maduro regime.
Advice
Individuals in Caracas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, and adhere to instructions issued by their home governments.
The security situation in Venezuela remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
