02 Jul 2019 | 03:44 PM UTC
Ukraine: Election-related demonstration expected in Kyiv July 2
Election-related demonstration expected at Independence Square in Kyiv July 2; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions expected
Event
A demonstration is slated to take place at Independence Square in Kyiv on Tuesday evening (local time), July 2, to protest election-related grievances. Participants are expected to gather from 20:00 amid a heightened security presence. Localized transportation disruptions are possible near the protest site in central Kyiv over the coming hours. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
Several civil society groups have organized the demonstration following the election commission's decision to accept the candidacies of Anatoly Shariy, an online blogger, and Andrey Klyuev, former Yanukovich administration official, for the upcoming legislative elections on July 21. Protesters contend that Shariy and Klyuev are not full-time residents of Ukraine and are therefore disqualified from running for office.
Advice
Individuals in Kyiv are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all political gatherings as a precaution, anticipate similar protests and associated disruptions over the coming weeks, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
