04 Oct 2019 | 08:56 PM UTC
Haiti: Thousands demand ouster of President Jovenel Moïse in Port-au-Prince October 4 /update 3
Thousands of protesters in Port-au-Prince demand resignation of President Jovenel Moïse October 4; similar demonstrations possible over the coming days
Event
Thousands of protesters in Port-au-Prince demanded Haitian President Jovenel Moïse step down from office on Friday, October 4, following nearly four weeks of related demonstrations that have virtually halted commerce in the country and left at least 17 people dead. On Friday, police shot at least two people and fired tear gas while blocking the main entrance to Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) from a crowd of demonstrators; the demonstrators reportedly hurled bottles and rocks at police officers at the scene. An unspecified number of police officers were wounded in Friday's protests and accompanying clashes.
Similar demonstrations and clashes between protesters and police are possible in Port-au-Prince over the coming days.
Context
The recent protests in Haiti have been primarily motivated by widespread food and fuel shortages, an ailing economy, and allegations of government corruption.
Advice
Individuals in Port-au-Prince are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, budget additional time to travel through protest-affected or protest-adjacent areas, monitor the situation, and obey instructions issued by the local authorities. Increased vigilance is advised.
The security environment in Haiti remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
