19 Jun 2023 | 11:59 PM UTC
Colombia: Protests planned throughout country June 20 to denounce ruling government and proposed reforms
Activists to hold protests across Colombia June 20 to denounce ruling government, proposed reforms; transport, business disruptions likely.
Event
Anti-government activists, including elected officials from opposition parties such as the Democratic Center (Centro Democratico, CD), plan to hold protests in cities across Colombia June 20 to denounce the government of President Gustavo Petro and its proposed reforms.
The largest demonstration is likely to occur in Bogota, where activists intend to march from Parque Nacional to Plaza de Bolivar starting at 09:00. The locations of other confirmed protests, all of which are scheduled to begin at 09:00, include the following:
Barranquilla: From Monumento Joe Arroyo to Paseo Bolivar
Bucaramanga: From Puerta del Sol to Plazoleta Luis Carlos Galan
Cali: From Parque de las Banderas to Plazoleta Jairo Varela
Cartagena: From Camellon de los Martires to Torre del Reloj
Medellin: From the intersection of Avenida Oriental and Avenida La Playa to Alpujarra
Protests are also likely in other cities around the country. Most marches in major cities are likely to draw several thousand demonstrators. Heightened security is likely near government offices and major roads. Transport and business disruptions are likely in areas subject to protest activity. Counterprotests are unlikely but cannot be ruled out. Clashes between protesters and police are possible, especially in downtown Bogota.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach destinations in protest-affected areas and consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any related disruptions. Do not attempt to cross a roadblock if you encounter one. Heed all instructions issued by local authorities.
