Bolivia: Pro- and anti-government demonstrations planned nationwide Oct. 10-12

Event

Pro- and anti-government activists have announced plans for politically motivated demonstrations across Bolivia Oct. 10-12. Additional protests may materialize at other locations and times, particularly in departmental capitals.

Activists affiliated with groups such as the Unity Block for Freedom and Democracy (Bloque de Unidad por la Libertad y la Democracia) have called for nationwide anti-government protests Oct. 10. Organizers also called for a nationwide general strike Oct. 11. The purpose of the actions is to demand the release of former interim President Jeanine Anez and an end to the alleged persecution of opposition leaders.

Pro-government groups such as Movement to Socialism (Movimiento al Socialismo) have also announced plans to demonstrate. A pro-government rally is planned in Cochabamba's Plaza San Sebastian from 10:00 Oct. 12. Associated gatherings may also take place in La Paz Oct. 12, although the exact times and locations have not yet been confirmed.

Further politically motivated protests are possible across Bolivia in the coming days. Likely gathering points include government buildings, central squares, and major thoroughfares.

Police will likely deploy to monitor all large gatherings. 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 from 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 Oct. 10-12, especially in departmental capitals.