PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – An anti-government protest march in Haiti’s capital has ended in tear gas and flaming barricades.

Thousands of people joined Thursday’s protest, marching through the streets of Port-au-Prince to complain mainly about the higher cost of living.

It was one of the biggest demonstrations against the administration of President Michel Martelly this year. The crowd consisted of supporters of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and opposition lawmakers.

The march began peacefully but ended as protesters approached the presidential grounds. Police fired warning shots and tear gas canisters and a small group of protesters set fire to barricades made of tires.

The protest happened on a national holiday known as Jean-Jacques Dessalines day, honouring one of Haiti’s founding fathers.