26 May 2020 | 02:52 AM UTC
Argentina: Protests reported in Buenos Aires and Córdoba on May 25
Protesters gather in Buenos Aires and Córdoba on May 25; a heightened security presence and further protests are to be expected over the near term
Event
Approximately 200 protesters gathered in Plaza de Mayo in the capital Buenos Aires on Monday, May 25, to denounce the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) mandatory isolation which has recently been extended by the government to continue until Sunday, June 7. According to media sources, police cordoned off the area to prevent protesters from reaching the plaza. The majority of participants wore face masks, however, reports indicate that social distancing measures were not always kept.
Travel restrictions in and around Buenos Aires have been tightened, with new circulation permits being introduced for vehicular movements and access to public transport restricted. The planned reopening of non-essential businesses in the capital has also been delayed until the next lockdown review on June 7. Under the lockdown measures, all individuals are required to remain at home unless going out to purchase basic goods. Banks, bakeries, supermarkets, mechanics, delivery services, pharmacies, public and private hospitals, and service stations, amongst others, are permitted to operate.
In addition, doctors and health professionals also gathered on Monday in Córdoba (Córdoba province) to denounce two professionals who have been accused and blamed for a COVID-19 outbreak in the Santa Lucia de Saldan nursing home. Participants carried out a demonstration in a caravan of private cars and trucks through many main roads of the provincial capital. Demonstrators disrupted traffic by the Bus Terminal, along Illia Boulevard, La Cañada, Duartes Quiros, and in the vicinity of the city's courts. Participants were also reportedly protesting low wages, inadequate personal protective equipment, and the mistreatment of healthcare professionals amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports indicate that the demonstration remained peaceful.
Further rallies and disruptions, as well as a heightened security presence, should be anticipated in Argentina in the near term.
Advice
Individuals in Argentina are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, anticipate transportation disruptions near demonstration sites, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
