Mexico: Activists plan protest convoy from Acapulco to Mexico City Nov. 5-7

Activist groups plan to stage a vehicular protest march from Acapulco to Mexico City Nov. 5-7. Dubbed the United for Reconstruction Convoy, the purpose of the action is to condemn the perceived inadequacy of the Mexican government's response following Hurricane Otis; the storm made landfall near Acapulco as a Category 5 hurricane on Oct. 25, causing significant damage to the city.

Participants will assemble at the Asta Bandera (Flag Pole) along Avenida Costera Miguel Aleman in Acapulco starting at 08:00 Nov. 5. The convoy will proceed eastward along Miguel Aleman to La Diana Cazadora (Fountain of Diana the Huntress), likely turning north on Avenida Farallon del Obispo. The group will subsequently follow Federal Highway 95D through Chilpancingo, arriving at the Antonio Barona Rojas Sports Center in Cuernavaca at about 16:00.

On Nov. 6, activists will rally in front of the Palacio Nacional (official residence of the president) starting at 10:00, with additional demonstrations taking place on Nov. 7 at the Senate of the Republic at 09:00 and the Chamber of Deputies at 13:00. It remains unclear how many participants the event may draw.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased police presence near government buildings in Mexico City, as well as at strategic points along the convoy's route as a precaution. Localized transport disruptions are possible along the route. While the demonstration will likely remain largely peaceful, isolated low-level confrontations cannot be ruled out.