Nepal: Opposition party plans protest march in Kathmandu Aug. 1

Event

The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) (CPN (UML)) plans to hold a protest march in Kathmandu Aug. 1 to denounce rising inflation. Participants will gather in the Basantpur area before marching through inner areas of the city; likely march destinations include government buildings as well as public squares, including Maitigarh Mandala. Several dozen to a few hundred people will likely participate in the protest. CPN (UML) supporters may also hold related protests in other areas of the Kathmandu Valley, which comprise Bhaktapur, Kathmandu, and Lalitpur districts.

Authorities will likely monitor the protest and may try to disperse the gathering if it is especially disruptive. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Localized transport disruptions are likely on and near march routes.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near the march.