08 Jan 2020 | 07:52 AM UTC
Venezuela: Opposition leader calls for more nationwide protests January 9-14 /update 4
Opposition leader Juan Guaidó announces further nationwide demonstrations between January 9-14, including in Caracas; heightened security and transportation disruptions expected
Event
Opposition leader Juan Guaidó has called for more nationwide protests against what the opposition lawmakers have called a "parliamentary coup." Guaidó called on his supporters to take to the streets on Thursday, January 9, through Saturday, January 11, although he did not announce specific details regarding meeting times or locations. He also asked his supporters to mobilize in the streets on Tuesday, January 14, and march to the National Assembly in the capital Caracas. Protests in Caracas are likely to be the largest although other demonstrations should be expected in major urban areas across the country.
Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are to be expected near all protest sites. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out. Counterprotests are possible.
Context
The ruling Socialist Party swore in its own candidate, Luis Parra, as the new head of the National Assembly on January 5, as security forces erected a cordon around the building in Caracas, blocking opposition lawmakers from entering and re-electing, as previously expected, Guaidó. Guaidó was re-elected in a separate parliamentary session on January 5; prompting concerns over the formation of two separate parliaments competing for legitimacy.
Venezuela is in the midst of a political crisis spurred by President Nicolás Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10, 2019, following 2018's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state.
Advice
Individuals in Venezuela, and in Caracas in particular, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
