Guatemala: Protest outside Congress in downtown Guatemala City Jan. 19

Pro-government activists have launched a protest outside the National Congress in downtown Guatemala City early Jan. 19, and plan to remain in the area until at least late Jan. 19. The demonstration is due to the election of the new leaders of Congress, following a court order, demanding the current leadership to be removed. The election is scheduled for 14:00.

Authorities have closed streets around Congress and the demonstration is likely to grow in numbers in the afternoon. Activists have said they may remain in the area even after Jan. 19, if pro-government lawmakers are blocked from leading the legislature. Heightened security in the area is likely. Business disruptions and clashes between demonstrators and police, or if counter-protests arise, are possible.