06 Sep 2018 | 08:55 PM UTC
Nicaragua: Nationwide general strike September 7 /update 43
Nationwide strike planned September 7 to call for release of political prisoners, dialogue; widespread disruptions to be expected
Event
On Thursday, September 6, the Civic Alliance for Justice and Democracy civil society protest group called for a 24-hour nationwide general strike to take place on Friday, September 7. The strike announcement comes two days after two more members of the Civic Alliance were arrested. Participants are demanding the release of political prisoners and a return to dialogue to resolve the country's ongoing political crisis. Significant service and commercial disruptions associated with the work stoppage are to be expected on Friday. Although the action is intended to remain peaceful, past protests have been met with violence by security forces or pro-government paramilitary members.
Context
Related nationwide strikes were also held on June 13 and July 13. Both actions were widely followed across the country.
The current period of unrest began with small student protests in Managua in mid-April and rapidly expanded. Regular protests have since led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence. Human rights groups estimate that over 300 people have been killed in relation to the protests since April, with thousands more wounded. Around 23,000 people have fled the country. Activists accuse the government and pro-government militias of committing serious human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, using weapons of war against protesters, arbitrary detentions, torture, excessive use of force, raiding homes without a warrant, and attacking the press.
Advice
Individuals in Nicaragua, particularly in Managua, 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. Those present in the country on September 7 should plan ahead for significant disruptions and avoid nonessential movements. Some countries, including the US, the UK, and France continue to advise their citizens to postpone nonessential travel to the country until further notice.
