Argentina: Demonstrations in support of vice president likely to continue in Buenos Aires' Recoleta neighborhood through early September

Event

Demonstrations in support of Vice President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner are likely to continue near her residence, located at the intersection of Calle Juncal and Calle Uruguay in the Recoleta neighborhood of Buenos Aires, through early September. Activists initially organized rallies near the vice president's house after federal prosecutors requested Aug. 22 that she be sentenced to 12 years in prison for alleged corruption. Tensions grew after local authorities erected barricades near the residence; on Aug. 27, police fired tear gas on protesters after a group of people attempted to knock down the barricades outside the vice president's home. The ensuing clashes injured at least 14 police officers and led to the arrests of four protesters.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the area to monitor any additional demonstrations that materialize. Clashes between demonstrators and police remain possible; police may attempt to forcibly disperse groups of demonstrators perceived to be disruptive, including through the use of tear gas or water cannons. Further rallies and clashes would likely cause localized transport and business disruptions.

Advice

Avoid all related demonstrations. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.