Honduras: Violent protests possible January 20 /update 29

Event

The political opposition has called for further protests to take place nationwide on Saturday, January 20, to denounce the results of the country’s November 2017 presidential elections, in which incumbent President Juan Orlando Hernández was declared the official winner. The largest gatherings are likely in the capital Tegucigalpa and the city of San Pedro Sula. As has been the case in related protests held in the country over recent months, outbreaks of violence (clashes, blocked roads, etc.) are likely. The National Interinstitutional Security Force (FUSINA) has warned that demonstrations that prove disruptive or violent would not be tolerated; police could quickly resort to employing teargas and other tactics to forcibly disperse such protests, notably in the event of roadblocks on major roads or highways.

Further demonstrations are to be anticipated on January 27, when Hernández will be sworn in for a second term in a low-key ceremony in Tegucigalpa.

Context

Numerous protests denouncing the results of the November 26 presidential election have been held; there have been numerous reports of deadly clashes, vandalism, looting, and roadblocks, particularly in urban areas. Salvador Nasralla, the losing candidate, has warned that civil war is possible if new elections are not held.

Visitors to the country should note that political activism by foreign nationals is prohibited under Honduran law. Foreigners who take part in demonstrations or other political activities risk detention and or/deportation.

Advice

Individuals in Honduras are advised to keep abreast of the situation and strictly avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.