Venezuela: Pro-government and opposition protests in Caracas April 6 /update 12

Event

Both the Venezuelan ruling party and the opposition plan to hold rallies in the capital Caracas on Saturday, April 6. Pro-government demonstrators are scheduled to gather at 09:00 (local time) and march to Palacio de Miraflores. Opposition demonstrations are expected to begin at 11:00 at dozens of sites nationwide.

A heightened security presence is expected in the vicinities of all such demonstrations, and clashes between protesters and security forces, as well as arrests, are likely. Localized traffic disruptions are to be anticipated around demonstration sites.

Context

Opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for nationwide protests on April 6 after the 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.