Guatemala: Separate protests planned in Guatemala City Jan. 18 and in multiple areas Jan. 20

Event

Separate groups plan to hold protests in Guatemala over different issues Jan. 18 and 20. On Jan. 18, the National Association of Private Transport has called for a protest in Guatemala City against fines issued by the municipal traffic police. Participants intend to march from the intersection of Calzada Aguilar Batrez and Avenida Pepata to the Guatemala City Municipality, starting at 0900. Organizers expect around 200 people to march to the municipality building; protesters will probably march along Avenida Bolivar.

On Jan. 20, Guatemala army veterans plan to protest in Guatemala City and other locations nationwide, reportedly to demand the approval of a veterans' benefits bill and to protest other issues. In the capital, protesters plan to rally outside the Presidential House and National Palace; the start time of the demonstrations has not been announced. Elsewhere, protests are likely in major cities in departments nationwide; demonstrations could materialize near government buildings, central squares, and on major thoroughfares.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor the larger protests. Clashes between police and demonstrators are possible if the latter breach security cordons around government buildings or if police attempt to disperse those blocking roads. Large demonstrations are likely to cause localized traffic disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Strictly heed instructions from authorities. If violence breaks out nearby, leave the area immediately. Allow additional time if you are operating in Guatemala City Jan. 18 and 20, and other major cities Jan. 20.