Warden Messages

Political Rallies: July 16 – 19, 2008

The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua advises American citizens residing in or traveling to Nicaragua that on Wednesday, July 16, local civil organizations will march to the National Assembly in Managua from the Hilton Princess Hotel, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Additionally this week, many political rallies commemorating the Sandinista Revolution Anniversary will be held throughout the country.  The concluding event will take place on Saturday, July 19, at the Plaza de La Fe in Managua from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. 

During these events, many parts of the downtown area will be closed to vehicles, causing heavy traffic and congestion throughout the city.
The Embassy reminds American citizens that even political rallies intended to be peaceful can possibly escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to exercise caution.

The Embassy’s Regional Security Officer has recommended that Embassy personnel not drive through barricades encountered on the street, that they keep windows up and doors locked in their vehicles, and that they carry a cell phone.

The U.S. Embassy in Managua is located at Km 5 ½ C. Sur Managua, Nicaragua, and can be reached 24/7 at 505-252-7100.  For emergencies (deaths, arrests, etc.) after hours, U.S. citizens can call this phone number and ask for the Embassy Duty Officer.

General information regarding consular service is available by calling (505) 252-7888.  Non-emergency services for American citizens are available Monday through Friday, 1:00 to 3:00 PM, except on Nicaraguan and U.S. holidays.

Additional contact information for the American Citizens Services unit is as follows:

Fax:             (505) 252-7304
Email:           ACS.Nicaragua@state.gov
Website:       http://managua.usembassy.gov
U.S. citizens are urged to register and update their contact information at the following website: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui.

Updated information on travel and security in Nicaragua may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 within the United States and Canada or, from outside the United States and Canada, 1-202-501-4444.  American citizens should consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information and Travel Warning for Nicaragua and other countries at http://travel.state.gov, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html, and the travel publication "A Safe Trip Abroad" at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html.