Venezuela: Protests planned in several locations Jan. 9 to demand an increase in salaries and pensions

Education workers and retirees affiliated with several organizations, including the umbrella National Workers Coalition Union (Coalicion Sindical Nacional de Trabajadores), plan to hold protests demanding increased salaries and pensions in several locations throughout Venezuela on Jan. 9.

The main protest is scheduled in Caracas, at the Tamanaco Gate of the Central University of Venezuela (Universidad Central de Venezuela, UCV) near Plaza Venezuela, starting at 10:00. Another protest is scheduled in Caracas, at Parque Carabobo, also starting at 09:00. Other confirmed protest locations are:

• Valencia, Carabobo: Outside Republica del Peru School, 09:00

• Maracaibo, Zulia: March from Puente Espana to Plazoleta de la Basilica, 09:00

• San Carlos, Cojedes: Redoma del Mango, 09:00

• Maracay, Aragua: Plaza Bicentenaria, 08:30

• Barquisimeto, Lara: March from Plaza Altagracia to Ombudsman Office, 09:00

Protests are likely in other locations. Hundreds are likely to participate in most of the demonstrations, which will likely prompt transport disruptions and heightened security. Minor clashes between protesters and police are possible.