02 Nov 2023 | 09:01 PM UTC
Guatemala: Indigenous groups to demonstrate in Guatemala City Nov. 3-4
Indigenous activists to protest in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Nov. 3-4. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Indigenous and opposition activists plan to hold several marches and rallies in Guatemala City Nov. 3-4 to demand the resignation of Attorney General Consuelo Porras and compliance with the 2023 presidential election results.
Demonstrators will assemble at the following locations starting at 08:00 Nov. 3:
Calzada Roosevelt below the Periferico bridge
Ruta al Atlantico, in front of Portales Mall
Calzada Aguilar Batres, below the Periferico bridge
Bulevar Vista Hermosa, in front of the Multimedica Building
Activists will subsequently march in four wings, converging outside the Office of the Attorney General before continuing to the Constitutional Court. The event will end with a rally at Plaza de la Constitucion.
On Nov. 4, activists will stage two rallies, with the first taking place in front of the Office of the Attorney General from 08:00 and the second at Plaza de la Constitucion starting at 14:00.
The events will probably draw very large crowds and cause significant transport and business disruptions in Guatemala City. Heightened security is likely along the march routes and outside government buildings; clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all protests as a precaution. Confirm appointments in advance if operating in Guatemala City Nov. 3-4, as ground transport is likely to be significantly affected in downtown areas. Strictly heed instructions from authorities.
The demonstrations are a continuation of mass protests held since at least late September, demanding the resignation of Porras and some of her close allies, as well as to oppose alleged attempts from authorities in the country to obstruct the inauguration of President-elect Bernardo Arevalo, who won the presidential election on Aug. 20.
While Arevalo is slated to become Guatemala's President starting in January 2024, there are several judicial investigations against him and his allies. On Nov. 2, the Electoral Supreme Court suspended the legal status of the Semilla Movement, Arevalo's political party, following requests from the Attorney General's Office and a judge.
