03 Jul 2024 | 05:04 PM UTC
Ecuador: Activists to stage protests across country on July 4 to denounce rising fuel prices
Activists to protest across Ecuador on July 4 to denounce rising fuel prices; increased security, transport and business disruptions likely.
Activists affiliated with various unions and civil society organizations, including the Unitary Workers' Front (Frente Unitario de Trabajadores, FUT), plan to stage protests across Ecuador on July 4. The purpose of the demonstrations is to denounce recent cuts to fuel subsidies that have raised fuel prices for consumers.
Protest organizers have called on demonstrators to gather at the following locations and times, among others:
Guayaquil: Parque Centenario at 16:00
Quito: Ecuadorian Institute of Social Security at 16:00
Cuenca: Parque San Blas at 17:00
Santo Domingo: Circulo de los Continentes at 17:00
The number of people who will take part in the demonstrations will almost certainly vary by location. Among the largest demonstrations that will occur will likely be those in Quito and Guayaquil, where thousands of people will probably participate. Officials will likely deploy a heightened security presence to the sites of the abovementioned demonstrations and any others that materialize. Transport and business disruptions will probably affect areas subject to protest activity. Authorities may close some roads on short notice in areas affected by the demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Avoid all protests as a precaution. Allow additional time to travel in major cities. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent areas affected by protest activity and related disruptions. Confirm appointments in advance if operating in Ecuador on July 4. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
