16 Jul 2019 | 07:55 PM UTC
US: Protests calling for governor's resignation planned in San Juan July 17 /update 3
Further protests calling for governor's resignation planned in San Juan July 17; heightened security presence and transportation disruptions expected near protest sites
Event
Demonstrations calling for Governor Ricardo Rossello's resignation are slated to take place on Wednesday, July 17, in San Juan. Protesters are scheduled to gather at the Capitolio at 17:00 (local time) and proceed to the governor's residence, La Fortaleza.
Similar protests are likely over the coming days across Puerto Rico and in other urban centers home to major Puerto Rican diaspora communities, including in New York City (New York state). A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected near all gatherings. Commercial disruptions are also possible in cities affected by related demonstrations.
Context
Protesters have marched in Puerto Rico over the previous week to demand that Governor Ricardo Rossello resign following reports published by a non-profit organization exposing conversations between the Governor and his cabinet. The conversations involved the use of sexist, homophobic, and misogynistic language. Despite admitting having written the messages, Rossello has resisted calls to resign.
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation has implicated other members of Rossello's cabinet in fraud, conspiracy, and other corruption-related investigations over the last several months, forcing several members to resign.
Advice
Individuals in Puerto Rico, and particularly those in San Juan, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized transportation and business disruptions and a heightened security presence near any demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
