Nicaragua: Deadly protests continue as National Dialogue stalls May 23 /update 16

Event

Deadly protests and clashes between anti-government demonstrators and police continued in Nicaragua after the National Dialogue held between government officials and members of civil society groups was indefinitely suspended on Wednesday, May 23. Among the areas most affected by protests and violence on Wednesday were the León and Chinandega areas, where least two people were killed and over 100 others wounded in clashes between anti-government protesters and pro-government paramilitary personnel at protester-erected roadblocks on the highway exits to the cities. Additional anti-government demonstrations, roadblocks, and clashes between protesters and security forces and pro-government paramilitaries are expected in the coming days.

Context

The protests and associated roadblocks and violence have been ongoing now for over a month and have affected various areas, including Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Estelí, Sebaco, León, Granada, Bluefields, Jinotepe, Diriamba, and Tipitapa. The protests have led to deadly clashes, looting, and other violence throughout the country, as well as a crackdown by security forces. Dozens of people have reportedly been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces, with hundreds more suffering injuries and numerous others arrested or missing. The demonstrations have also resulted in widespread transportation disruptions, including between the capital and the city of Granada, as well as throughout the center of the country (e.g. in and around Juigalpa, El Rama, El Tortuguero, and Nueva Guinea).

On May 13, the US Embassy in Managua advised all government employees and US citizens in the country to avoid all unnecessary travel and remain at home. Some countries, including France, are advising their nationals to postpone all nonessential travel to the country until further notice.

Advice

Individuals in Nicaragua are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests due to the risks of violence and arrest, and adhere to any advice issued by their home governments.