04 Aug 2021 | 08:03 PM UTC
Bolivia: Activists to stage nationwide demonstrations Aug. 5-6
Activists to protest suspension of investigations into potential election fraud across Bolivia Aug. 5-6; increased security presence likely.
Event
The National Committee for the Defense of Democracy (Comite Nacional de Defensa de la Democracia, CONADE) and other activist groups have called for protests in several areas across Bolivia Aug. 5-6. Activists are organizing the demonstrations to reject the suspension of investigations into suspected fraud in the 2019 elections. Organizers have generally not confirmed the specific times and locations of the protests, except for affirming that demonstrations will occur in La Paz and multiple departmental capitals, including Cochabamba, among others. In Santa Cruz, protesters are scheduled to march from Plaza del Estudiante to Plaza 24 de Septiembre at 18:00 Aug. 5. In La Paz, protesters will gather in front of the Legislative Assembly Aug. 6; the time has not been confirmed.
Other gatherings and related demonstrations are possible nationwide Aug. 6 as the country marks 196 years of independence. Likely gathering points include government buildings, central squares, and major thoroughfares.
Police will likely deploy to monitor all large gatherings. Counterdemonstrations are possible at CONADE events. Clashes between rival groups of activists or between police and demonstrators cannot be ruled out. The gatherings may cause localized traffic disruptions in departmental capitals.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings. Heed instructions issued by local authorities. Monitor local media for updates on the status of roads as protest locations may not be announced in advance. Exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Plan accordingly for potential disruptions to ground travel Aug. 5-6, especially in departmental capitals.
