24 Oct 2019 | 09:02 AM UTC
Colombia: Officials to close border with Venezuela and Ecuador October 24-27 ahead of regional elections /update 2
Colombia to close border with Venezuela and Ecuador October 24-27 ahead of regional elections; prohibition law in effect from October 26-28
Event
The Colombian government has announced land border closures from Thursday, October 25, through Sunday, October 27, ahead of Sunday's regional elections. The closures include that with Venezuela from Thursday through Sunday until 16:00 (local time), as well as the border with Ecuador from Saturday, October 26, through Sunday.
Authorities also announced that prohibition law, which prevents the sale of alcohol in restaurants and stores, will be in place from 18:00 on Saturday, October 26, until 06:00 on Monday, October 28. Sunday's elections concern mayoral, governor, municipal, department assembly, and local administrative boards in Atlántico, Antioquia, Valle del Cauca, Cundinamarca, Bogota, and Barranquilla.
High turnout is expected, which is likely to prompt a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions.
Advice
Individuals in Colombia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid polling stations and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
