Paraguay: Protests and security blockades in Asunción August 14-15

Event

Beginning at 18:00 (local time) on Tuesday, August 14, security forces will block off the perimeter of the National Congress ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Mario Abdo Benítez set to take place on Wednesday, August 15. Oliva Street and Estados Unidos Street to Don Bosco will be completely blocked off through at least 15:30 on August 15.

Thousands of people are expected to protest the president-elect's inauguration at Plaza Italia and the Pantheon of the Heroes on August 14-15. A march organized by the Paraguay Free movement is planned for August 15 beginning at 07:30; participants will march from Plaza Italia, along Chile Street to Herrera Street, ending at The Antequera Stairway. Despite the planned march, law enforcement has stated the Law of the Marchódromo is in place which only allows demonstrations between 19:00 and 24:00. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected in the areas surrounding the inauguration ceremony as well as the demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.

Context

The inauguration ceremony for President-elect Mario Abdo Benítez (Colorado Party) will be held at Palacio de López on August 15, with events scheduled to take place from 07:00 to 15:30. Roughly 5000 people and seven foreign heads of state are expected to be in attendance.

Abdo Benítez will replace current President Horacio Cartes, also of the conservative Colorado Party, who was constitutionally ineligible for reelection.

Advice

Individuals present in Asunción on August 15 are advised to anticipate transportation disruptions surrounding the Palacio de López, avoid any potential protests, and follow all instructions issued by the local authorities.