Guatemala: Social movements call for protests in Guatemala City and elsewhere March 9-12

Event

Various social movements and indigenous groups have called for protests in Guatemala City and other locations throughout the country March 9-12. The actions are to denounce the recent controversial election of certain magistrates to the Constitutional Court. Organizers have not announced details on the specific times and locations of the demonstrations.

The largest of the protests are likely to occur in the capital. Likely rally points include Plaza de la Constitucion opposite the National Palace, and the nearby Congress building, as well as the Constitutional and Supreme Courts. Elsewhere, likely gathering points are government buildings and central plazas. Demonstrators may block major routes as part of the protests.

Police will almost certainly deploy to monitor all large protests and secure government buildings in the capital. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if police attempt to clear any potential roadblocks. All large gatherings are likely to cause localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all protests and leave the area at the first sign of violence. Do not attempt to pass through roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them before proceeding. Allow extra time to reach destinations within and between cities in Guatemala March 9-12.