Venezuela: Maduro announces electricity rationing measures March 31 /update 4

Event

President Nicolás Maduro announced a plan for 30 days of electricity rationing on Sunday, March 31. In a televised speech, Maduro stated there would be an emphasis on ensuring water service. The government also announced the closure of schools and suspending the workday at 14:00 (local time) each day to assist with the conservation of electricity. Continued disruptions to power and telecommunications are expected in the coming days and weeks, along with other services, including water supply and operable fuel stations.

Protests and demonstrations are also expected to continue, particularly in and near Caracas. A heightened security presence is likely at all public demonstrations and clashes between protesters and security forces, arrests, and localized transportation disruptions are possible.

Context

Recent power outages in Venezuela have caused disruptions to transportation, water distribution systems, and telecommunications services. The government has claimed outages have been caused by acts of "sabotage" carried out by the US; however, previous outages that had been blamed on attacks were later attributed to infrastructural deficiencies.

Venezuela is experiencing an ongoing crisis spurred by President Nicolás Maduro's inauguration to a second term as president on January 10 following last year's contested election, prompting the National Assembly to declare a national emergency. At least 50 foreign governments, including the US, Canada, and Brazil, among others, have since recognized opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the interim head of state.

Advice

Individuals in Venezuela are advised to monitor developments to the situation, adhere to instructions issued by their home governments, keep battery-operated devices fully charged whenever possible, remain vigilant for criminal behavior and avoid conspicuous displays of wealth, refrain from discussing political topics in public or on social media, and avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence and arrest. In addition, individuals are advised to be cautious when driving or crossing streets if traffic signals are not functional.

The security situation in Venezuela remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.