Guatemala: Activists call for protests nationwide, Sept. 15

Event

Activists affiliated with the Farmer Development Committee (Comite de Desarrollo Campesino, CODECA) have called for protests in all departments of Guatemala on Sept. 15, coinciding with Guatemala's bicentennial Independence Day. Participants will protest to denounce celebrations of Independence Day, as they argue it is only celebrated by a group of citizens that does not include indigenous groups. Activists will also demonstrate against President Alejandro Giammattei.

Specific times and locations remain unconfirmed. However, the largest of the protests are likely to occur in the capital. Likely gathering 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. While organizers have stated that they do not plan to block routes, roadblocks remain possible during 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, Sept. 15.