Large scale rallies to take place across the country

Large-scale rallies against the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) will take place in major cities across Colombia on 28 November 2008. Dozens of political and social organizations will participate in the rallies, which were organized by former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt. Betancourt, who was held by the FARC for more than six years, has demanded that the guerilla group release all 700 of its remaining hostages before 25 December. Travelers should expect significant transportation disruptions and heightened security measures in all major cities. In Bogotá, the protest will likely take place in the Plaza Bolivar. Although there have been no reported threats against the event, travellers should avoid crowded areas as a precautionary measure.