Venezuela: Opposition leader calls for anti-government nationwide protest July 5

Event

Opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for a nationwide mobilization for Friday, July 5, to denounce the death of corvette Captain Acosta, who died in government custody on Saturday, June 29. Guaidó claims that Acosta was tortured by the Maduro regime, who was under investigation for participation in the failed coup in May 2019. 

In Caracas, the mobilization will depart from the United Nations office in Caracas and proceed to the headquarters of the Military Counterintelligence General Directorate (DGCIM). The scheduled time was not immediately clear. Mobilizations in other metropolitan areas should be expected.

Associated transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence should be expected near all protests. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

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, and particularly in Caracas, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruption and a heightened security presence in the event of any demonstrations, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.