Brazil: Protests denouncing presidential election results likely to continue in some states through mid-November /update 3

Event

Protests denouncing the election of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as Brazil's new president will likely continue in some areas of the country through mid-November. As of Nov. 8, authorities have cleared most of the protester roadblocks that had been obstructing federal highways in dozens of states.

Nevertheless, some blockages remain in place on thoroughfares in the states of Mato Grosso, Parana, and Rondonia. In Mato Grosso, protests have been reported along highway BR-163, in the municipalities of Nova Mutum, Lucas do Rio Verde, Sorriso, and Sinop, as well as in parts of Rondonopolis and Cuiaba. In Parana, demonstrators have assembled along highway BR-373 in Prudentopolis, while in Rondonia, protests are taking place along highway BR-364 in Vilenha and Ouro Preto.

Authorities have dispersed more than 1,000 demonstrations and will probably end the few remaining gatherings over the coming days; still, activists could defy police instructions or move their protests to new locations in an effort to keep the action going.

Security personnel will almost certainly deploy to any demonstrations that may materialize. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Localized disruptions to intercity transport services are possible.

Advice

Avoid all protests and related events as a precaution. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks; utilize alternative routes or wait for the police to reopen impacted roads. Confirm business appointments in advance. Allow additional time to reach destinations in affected locations.