Mexico: Activists to hold a vehicular protest march in Chihuahua starting at 1030 Dec. 17

Event

Activists affiliated with various groups, including the Diocese Commission of Laypeople (Comision Diocesana de Laicos) plan to hold a vehicular protest march in Chihuahua, Dec. 17. The purpose of the demonstration is to demand that churches be allowed to open at full capacity. Currently, places of worship in Chihuahua are restricted to operating at 25-percent capacity due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Demonstrators will gather at Padre Maldonado Sanctuary along Avenida Teofilo Borunda at 1030, before driving to the state's Government Palace, in downtown Chihuahua. Hundreds of people may attend the event.

Increased security and transport disruptions are likely. Police will likely deploy to monitor the protest. Demonstrations, protests, and other public events have largely been suspended in the country under current COVID-19 restrictions. While the protest will remain largely peaceful, isolated skirmishes cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a standard security precaution. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of any confrontation. Monitor local sources to check the status of roads, as protesters may block thoroughfares without warning. Heed the instructions of all security personnel.