Bolivia: Activists plan protest in Santa Cruz, Sept. 28

Event

Members and supporters of the ruling-party Movement to Socialism (Movimiento al Socialismo, MAS) plan to rally in Santa Cruz, Sept. 28 to protest what they perceived as an attack by regional authorities against indigenous symbols. Activists plan to gather in the Plaza del Cementerio General starting at 16:00. Bolivian authorities raised the Wiphala flag, which represents indigenous communities in the Andes and is recognized as a national symbol in Bolivia, during a ceremony in Santa Cruz Sept. 24, but authorities of the province of Santa Cruz removed it shortly after.

Hundreds are likely to participate in the demonstration, with associated heightened security and transport and business disruptions in the area. Counter-protests and clashes cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a precaution. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in Santa Cruz, Sept. 28.