14 Nov 2019 | 05:20 AM UTC
Czech Republic: Nationwide demonstrations planned November 16-17 /update 1
The Million Moments for Democracy civil society organization is planning a rally in Prague on November 16 and nationwide events on November 17; associated disruptions expected
Event
A protest is scheduled to take place in Prague on Saturday, November 16, starting at 14:00 (local time) at Letná Park. The demonstration is being organized by the Million Moments for Democracy movement to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. Tens of thousands of people are expected to participate in the event. The group is also calling for rallies to be held nationwide on Sunday, November 17, to mark the 30th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution.
A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all demonstration sites.
Context
The Million Moments for Democracy student group has held several protests throughout Czech Republic demanding the resignation of several government officials, particularly Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. Around 250,000 people gathered at protests on June 23 and August 21.
The Velvet Revolution began on November 17, 1989, which resulted in the end of the one-party government of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia.
Advice
Individuals in Czech Republic are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized business and transportation disruptions around protest sites.
