23 May 2018 | 02:52 AM UTC
Nicaragua: Roads and highways blockaded as protests continue May 22 /update 15
Roads and highways blockaded in Nicaragua, particularly in rural areas, as of May 22; additional protests expected in the coming days
Event
Protesters in Nicaragua blockaded roads and highways across the country on Tuesday, May 22, particularly in rural areas. The renewed protests come after negotiations in a "National Dialogue" between government officials, businesspeople, and other civil society groups have faltered in recent days. On Monday, May 21, political opposition groups involved in the talks reportedly voted against a motion calling for the cessation of violence, guaranteeing the free movement of people on roads, and safeguarding the right to work. Additional demonstrations and road blockades are expected in Nicaragua in the coming days. Associated traffic disruptions and heightened security measures are anticipated near additional potential protests.
Context
The protests and associated roadblocks and violence have been ongoing now for over a month and have affected various areas, including Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Estelí, Sebaco, León, Granada, Bluefields, Jinotepe, Diriamba, and Tipitapa. The protests have led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence throughout the country, as well as a crackdown by security forces. Dozens of people have reportedly been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces, with hundreds more suffering injuries and numerous others arrested or missing. The demonstrations have also resulted in widespread transportation disruptions, including between the capital and the city of Granada, as well as throughout the center of the country (e.g. in and around Juigalpa, El Rama, El Tortuguero, and Nueva Guinea).
On May 13, the US Embassy in Managua advised all government employees and US citizens in the country to avoid all unnecessary travel and remain at home. Some countries, including France, are advising their nationals to postpone all nonessential travel to the country until further notice.
Advice
Individuals in Nicaragua are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the risk of violence and arrest, and adhere to any advice issued by their home governments.
