Ecuador: Opposition activists to hold nationwide protests from Feb. 16, and march to Quito, where they will rally Feb. 17

Event

Leaders of the Confederation of Peoples of the Kichwa Nationality of Ecuador (Ecuarunari), and other supporters of presidential opposition candidate Yaku Perez, have called for nationwide protests starting Feb. 16. Organizers have also called on demonstrators to proceed from the southern Province of Loja and other areas to Quito, where they intend to protest from 0900 Feb. 17. Details on the specific protest locations have not been specified, though the National Electoral Council (Consejo Nacional Electoral, CNE) is likely to be the focal area for the protests in the capital. Large protests are also likely outside the Electoral Delegation in Guayaquil. Elsewhere, demonstrators may gather in central squares or outside government buildings. Thousands of people could participate in the demonstrations.

Heightened security is likely near all large protests and electoral facilities. Demonstrators could block major inter-provincial highways on their march to Quito. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if police attempt to disperse those who block roads or breach security cordons near government buildings. All large gatherings are likely to cause localized traffic disruptions.

Context

The protests relate to the Feb. 7 presidential election, which saw Guillermo Lasso, supported by an alliance between CREO and the Social Christian Party, overtake Yaku Perez of Pachakutik to claim second place. Perez supporters have held several protests since the election, alleging electoral fraud and demanding a vote recount in several provinces. The latest round of protests is in response to Lasso's withdrawal from an agreement with Perez requesting a full vote recount in Guayas Province, and a recount of 50 percent of the votes in 16 other provinces. The presidential run-off election is scheduled for April 11; additional protests are highly likely during the election period.

Advice

Avoid all protests and do not attempt to cross and roadblocks. If violence breaks out near you, leave the area immediately, and seek shelter in a secure location. Confirm appointments in advance. Allow additional time if operating in Ecuador Feb. 16 and 17, especially in Quito and Guayaquil.