Nicaragua: Violent protests continue in Managua May 28 /update 18

Event

Violent demonstrations continue to take place across Nicaragua. On Monday, May 28, students rallied at the National University of Engineering (UNI) in the capital Managua to protest the government’s heavy-handed response to recent demonstrations, which resulted in several deaths. Police officers and paramilitary groups used rubber and live ammunition to disperse the crowd, who responded with stones and homemade explosive devices. At least one person was killed and around 35 people wounded during the clashes, including police officers and journalists. A number of students were also reportedly detained by the police.

The Mothers of April Movement, a civil society group, is calling for a massive march in Managua on May 30 (Mother’s Day in Nicaragua) to denounce the violence. Participants will gather at the Jean Paul Genie roundabout at 14:00 (local time) before traveling down Masaya Road and concluding their march at the Central American University (UCA). The group called for all Nicaraguans to support the demonstration in solidarity with the mothers who have lost children in the recent violent protests. Increased security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected during the march.

Context

The protests and associated roadblocks and violence have been ongoing now since April 18 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. According to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), at least 83 people have been killed as of May 28.

The US Embassy in Managua has advised all government employees and US citizens in the country to avoid all unnecessary travel. Some countries, including France, are advising their nationals to postpone 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.