Guatemala: Activists plan protests nationwide Sept. 19 /update 1

Event

Activists affiliated with the Peasant Development Committee (Comite de Desarrollo Campesino, CODECA) have announced plans to protest in several locations across Guatemala from 06:00 Sept. 19. Protesters plan to block highways in several locations, including near Ciudad Pedro de Alvarado, Poptun, Tactic, Chisec, Santa Elena, Mazatenango, Sanarate, and La Ruidosa. Protesters will also gather outside the Public Ministry headquarters in Chimaltenango. Additional gatherings are likely in other locations across the country, including outside government buildings in Guatemala City.

Further protests are likely to continue in the coming days across Guatemala. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near protest sites. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out, especially if police move to dismantle protester roadblocks.

Context

Several demonstrations have taken place since Guatemala's prosecutor's office raided two Supreme Electoral Tribunal (Tribunal Supremo Electoral, TSE) facilities on Sept. 12. Following the raid, president-elect Bernardo Arevalo has suspended his participation in the government transition, denouncing perceived crimes of abuse of authority in the electoral process, amid political uncertainty and concerns over possible interference in the electoral process.

Advice

Avoid all protests. If clashes occur, immediately take shelter in a secure, nongovernment building. Heed the directives of authorities. Monitor local news sources for further information. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected areas. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Guatemala.