Colombia: Officials to close border with Venezuela October 24-27 ahead of regional elections /update 1

Event

Colombia will close its border with Venezuela from Thursday, October 24, until 16:00 (local time) on Sunday, October 27, ahead of Sunday's regional elections. 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.