Nicaragua: Sandinista celebrations in Managua July 18-19

Event

Various festivities are taking place in the capital Managua July 18-19 to celebrate the anniversary of the Sandinista revolution. On Tuesday, July 18, marches and large gatherings are expected be held on Bolívar Avenue, Rotonda Hugo Chávez, the Malecón area, and Plaza de las Victorias. On Wednesday, July 18, gatherings are expected to occur throughout the day in the Malecón area, Plaza de la Revolución, and Bolívar Avenue. Gatherings may occur spontaneously in other areas as well. The events are expected to be peaceful but road closures and significant traffic disruptions should be expected.

Context

The Sandinista revolution of 1978-79, led by the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), overthrew the Somoza family dictatorship that had been in power since 1939. The FSLN, a collection of leftist political parties, struggled for control over Nicaragua with the rightist Contras from 1981 until 1990, when the conflict was ended by the Tela Accord.

Advice

Individuals are advised to avoid all gatherings as a precaution.