Venezuela: Opposition protests possible during National Assembly installation in Caracas Jan. 5

Event

The installation of Venezuela's controversial National Assembly Jan. 5, could prompt opposition protests near the Federal Legislative Palace in Caracas, where the event is due to take place. The leadership of the National Assembly is claimed by both President Nicolas Maduro's Partido Socialista Unido de Venezuela (PSUV), which won a clear victory in the controversial opposition-boycotted election of Dec. 6, 2020, and the opposition led by Juan Guaido. On Dec. 26, the Guaido-led National Assembly declared the Dec. 6 election illegitimate and voted to extend their term by another year. The Supreme Court, however, has ruled the extension as invalid.

It is unclear whether Guaido and other deputies will attempt to enter the legislative palace during the installation, as they did around the same time in 2020. Nonetheless, authorities are likely to enforce heightened security measures around the palace Jan. 5, which are likely to cause localized ground transport disruptions. Clashes between security forces and opposition members or protesting anti-government activists are possible. Law enforcement will not hesitate to use water cannon, tear gas, or rubber bullets to clear demonstrations. Anti-government protesters have been known to throw crude incendiary devices or rocks at security personnel.

Advice

Avoid any protests that may materialize Jan. 5. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Heed the directives of the authorities and allow additional time to reach destinations near the Federal Legislative Palace.