Dominican Republic: Medical workers' protest march planned in San Francisco de Macoris Oct. 26

Event

Medical workers affiliated with the Dominican Medical College (Colegio Medico Dominicano, CMD) and numerous organizations plan to march in San Francisco de Macoris, Cibao Region, Oct. 26. Demonstrators will gather at the Hospital Regional Universitario San Vicente de Paul from 10:00 and march to the Parque Duarte. The purpose of the action is to protest the alleged mishandling of pension funds and private health insurance policies. It remains unclear how many people the demonstration will attract; however, thousands are likely to participate in the march, as its organizers have received support from several non-medical associations.

Authorities will likely deploy increased security near the demonstration as a precaution. Localized traffic disruptions are possible. Although the demonstration should remain largely peaceful, clashes between protesters and police are possible if police attempt to forcibly disperse crowds.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations if operating San Francisco de Macoris Oct. 26.