09 Aug 2021 | 11:46 AM UTC
Guatemala: Activists to hold further protests and block main roads nationwide Aug. 9 /update 1
Indigenous activists call for further nationwide protests in Guatemala from 06:00 Aug. 9; roadblocks likely to cause transport disruptions.
Event
Members and supporters of indigenous organizations have called for continued protests from 06:00, Aug. 9, to demand the resignations of President Alejandro Giammattei and Attorney General Consuelo Porras. Some student organizations and veterans of Guatemala's armed forces will join protests, especially in Guatemala City, where a demonstration is planned on Calzada Raul Aguilar Batres from 06:00, Aug. 9. Other protests are likely in the capital and other major cities. Likely gathering points include government buildings, central squares, and major thoroughfares.
Participants also plan to set up dozens of roadblocks along main highways. In Alta Verapaz department, participants plan to block several parts of RN-7E Highway near San Julian, La Tinta, Cuguiltz, and Fray Bartolome de las Casas. Blockades also expected in parts of the Pacific Highway (CA-2), especially near the towns of Coatepeque in Quetzaltenango department, the Pan-American Highway (CA-1), and Jacobo Arbenz Guzman Highway (CA-9).
Participants are likely to block other major intercity roads and bridges; consequent transport disruptions are likely on affected routes. Associated security-related disruptions are likely. Heightened security measures and associated clashes are possible near roadblocks and demonstration sites.
Context
The announcement follows nationwide protests and a strike across Guatemala Aug. 5-6. Similar demonstrations in late July disrupted traffic at more than 35 sites along major roads located mostly in western and eastern Guatemala, including on Highways CA-1, CA-2, and CA-9. Protesters also disrupted traffic at a border crossing in El Carmen and along the road to Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS) in Flores.
Advice
Avoid all protests and related events as a precaution. Do not attempt to cross a roadblock; utilize alternative routes or wait for the police to reopen affected roads. Confirm business appointments in advance. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Guatemala in the coming days.
