05 Jun 2018 | 09:46 PM UTC
Nicaragua: Civil society groups call for coordinated protests /update 22
Various civil society groups are calling for nationwide coordination of anti-government protests; activists claim at least 70 percent of roads blocked as of June 5
Event
Various social movements and civil society groups announced on Monday, June 4, that they will coordinate nationwide protests to demand justice for individuals who have been killed by security forces after at least five people were killed and 20 others were wounded in clashes in Masaya on June 2. According to a statement released on June 4, the groups intend to carry out daily marches or protests across the country and also called on businesses to launch a general strike. Activists claim that as of Tuesday, June 5, around 70 percent of roads in Nicaragua are currently blocked by ongoing demonstrations.
Additional anti-government protests, clashes between protesters and security forces, and transportation disruptions (i.e. due to roadblocks) are expected in Nicaragua in the coming days. A heightened security presence is expected near protest sites.
Context
The unrest has been ongoing now for over a month and has affected numerous areas of the country, notably Masaya, Managua, Matagalpa, Estelí, Sebaco, León, Granada, Bluefields, Jinotepe, and Tipitapa. Regular protests have repeatedly led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence, leaving more than 100 people dead. Thousands of others have been injured or arrested.
Advice
Individuals in Nicaragua, particularly in Masaya, are advised to closely monitor the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the risk of violence and arrest, and adhere to any advice issued by their home governments.
