09 Jul 2018 | 08:17 PM UTC
Haiti: General strike begins July 9 following violent protests /update 2
Two-day general strike begins July 9 following violent protests over a proposed fuel price hike; at least four fatalities reported in unrest since July 6
Event
Violence is subsiding in Port-au-Prince as of Monday, July 9, following a weekend of deadly protests that left at least four dead since Friday. The violence erupted in response to now-scrapped plans by the Haitian government to raise the prices of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene by up to 50 percent; the situation escalated as protesters called for the immediate departure of President Jovenel Moïse. According to local reports, the capital is calmer and most of the barricades and roadblocks have been cleared as of Monday, although tensions remain high. Flights also resumed at Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP) on Monday after widespread cancelations on July 8. In the wake of the local unrest, the US and Canadian embassies in Haiti announced they will not provide routine services on Monday, July 9, but will remain open to provide emergency services to impacted citizens.
Meanwhile, protesters called for a two-day general strike beginning on July 9, to include bus and taxi drivers. As of Monday afternoon, much of Port-au-Prince appeared to be following the strike, leaving the city largely deserted. However, some demonstrations and marches have continued, as protesters demand the resignation of President Jovenel Moïse. Additional protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces are expected in Port-au-Prince, especially in the Pétion-Ville area, in the coming days. A heightened security presence and traffic disruptions are anticipated near protest sites.
Context
All protests in Haiti, even smaller ones, have the potential to disrupt daily life as they often involve roadblocks and/or violence. Further protests and affiliated violence to denounce the now-canceled increase in fuel prices and demand the president's resignation are possible in the coming days.
Advice
Individuals in Port-au-Prince and elsewhere across Haiti are advised to monitor the situation and strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence. Confirm flight reservations before traveling to the airport and contact your airline for more information. Monitor updates from your respective embassy for possible adjustments to operating hours.
