Haiti: Calls for anti-government demonstrations in Port-au-Prince July 6-7

Event

Anti-government protests are expected over the coming days in Port-au-Prince as several groups have called for demonstrations on Saturday, July 6, and Sunday, July 7. Local sources claim some opposition groups have made calls on social media for demonstrations in the capital on Saturday, July 6; however, police have not authorized the gatherings. 

In addition, the main opposition coalition has announced that authorities in Port-au-Prince have sanctioned a demonstration march from 10:30-15:30 (local time) on Sunday, July 7. The march is slated to begin and end at Champs de Mars via Rue Capois, Lalue, Rue Lamarre, Rue Sans Fil, Carrefour Paillant, Route de Delmas, Carrefour Aéroport, Pétion-Ville, Rue Panaméricaine, Avenue John Brown, and Place Constitution. 

An increased security presence, along with localized transportation disruptions, are likely around demonstration sites. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Context

Numerous demonstrations have been staged in recent months to call for greater government transparency after several public officials, including President Jovenel Moïse, were implicated in a scandal related to the alleged misuse of PetroCaribe funds.

Advice

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